Free Time

Looking to the future

Words: Paul Collings, Artistic Director of Kindred Drama

As we write this article the world of theatre is in its biggest ever state of flux. Producers, performers and theatregoers alike are scrabbling to try and get answers about what the future holds for the industry.

At Kindred, we have tried to approach the whole lockdown situation from a positive point of view – constantly planning for the day when theatre’s are accessible to everyone again and our young people can continue doing what they and we love.

The June announcement that theatres can reopen but not for live performances only underlined our very difficult decision to cancel this Summer’s proposed performance of ‘Cats’ in August, but at the time of writing it does mean that we are able to move forward with our Summer School, which will be at the Key Theatre respecting all rules and regulations surrounding Covid-19. Our customers have all been assured that we will do everything to ensure the safety of those that are attending and the support has been overwhelmingly positive – we are sold out for 2020!

Despite the recent Vivacity statement, rest assured that we Kindred, as a company, have been fully briefed about the situation. KYT, although in partnership, is independent and saw the theatre change from PCC to Vivacity ten years ago and will be a part of any future arrangements as it returns to PCC. Once we get past September and in the hope that life is returning back to some kind of normal (albeit a new normal) by then, there are many exciting things planned for Kindred and KYT.

In December, KYT will play a huge part in the Key’s proposed pantomime production of Cinderella, providing the members of the Junior Chorus and the show itself being choreographed by our very own Lisa Collings. Into 2021, we are planning TWO full scale musicals at the Key in August and October. Our summer musical in August will be the smash-hit Chicago, a show we have wanted to stage for many years and we are delighted to finally give our young people the opportunity to ‘Paint The Town and All That Jazz!’

October 2021’s show is being kept under wraps for now, so watch this space, but rest assured it will bring audiences young and old flocking to the Key Theatre again.

And while this year’s Summer School may be sold out, we are actively recruiting members for September 2020 for all of our groups and exciting upcoming productions.

Details of how to join can be found on our Kindred Drama Facebook page or our website www.kindredrama.com or email us .

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