Nottingham Playhouse is releasing a series of videos and podcasts to keep its audiences engaged during the shutdown.
The new posts began with the sharing of Nottingham Playhouse’s video of the Mass Bolero, a mass participation event five years ago that saw over 700 local people recreating Torvill and Dean’s iconic ice-skating routine in locations across Nottingham (pictured).
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8WOO6qoEcgo&t=249s
A newly released video features Alex Patterson, the Playhouse choir’s conductor and Nottingham Cathedral’s music director. With the Playhouse Choir unable to meet for the next fortnight, he guides viewers through vocal warm-ups and a song tutorial.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D3QLFrdPUhs&t=1s
Members of the public are being invited to send in videos of themselves singing the cheerful song “Bring me Sunshine” for the Playhouse to share on social media.
The videos come after not only shows were postponed but the halting of many events and classes groups for local communities at the Playhouse.
Other digital arts being released online include dance tutorials, story-telling, a pantomime exclusive and the re-releasing of the theatre’s Nottingham Playcast podcasts.
Martin Berry, head of participation for Nottingham Playhouse, said: “Here at Nottingham Playhouse, we are using technology, imagination and creativity to make sure we are still here for everyone. From dance tutorials, singing videos, activities for children, competitions and more, we will do all we can to remain faithful to our many communities, to be there for our most vulnerable participants and friends, and to play our vital part in Nottingham’s wellbeing.
“This is not an easy time for anyone, including the Playhouse, but with support, donations and engagement, we will not only avoid being diminished by this moment in time, but will grow through it and come back stronger than ever.”
For updates on new videos, follow Nottingham Playhouse on Twitter at @NottmPlayhouse, on Facebook and Instagram at @nottmplayhouse.
Mark Ludmon has been a journalist for over 20 years, specialising in writing about theatre and the arts as well as bars, pubs and drink. He has been on the theatre judging panel for London’s Olivier Awards and has a masters degree in English literature, specialising in Elizabethan and Jacobean drama. He has an MA in theatre research, criticism and dramaturgy from the University of London’s Royal Central School of Speech & Drama. You can find him tweeting about theatre as @MarkLudmon and writing about theatre at markludmon.com.
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