After being closed for 18 months, the Crediton Arts Centre reopens this weekend with a packed programme of theatre, music and film events, as well as a varied offering of classes and workshops. Administrator Jack Robson looks back on how the Arts Centre has kept busy during lockdown and ahead to what lies in store this autumn.
When the first lockdown was announced in March 2020 we immediately had to close our East Street building and cancel all our events and classes. Our three part time staff were furloughed and, like many arts venues, we wondered how long we could survive with no income. At that stage the prospect of being closed for even a term seemed quite bleak. We had no idea we would remain shut for 18 months.
Luckily we have lots of experience of staging outdoor shows and events - our Shakespeare in the Square productions are well known – so when the Town Team suggested buying a few picnic tables to encourage people to meet safely in the town square, we stepped in and offered to organise some live entertainment. In June 2020 the Share in the Square programme started, initially with a few local musicians playing on Friday and weekend lunchtimes, but that soon expanded to include theatre, poetry and comedy events.
These ran until September and proved so popular that when we realised Covid restrictions were likely to keep us closed well into 2021, we decided to spend the winter fundraising and planning for an expanded outdoor programme.
Thanks to generous support from Crediton Town Council and Mid Devon District Council, this summer’s Share in the Square has run from April to September, showcasing a fantastic range of local talent, bringing much needed footfall into our town centre and, above all, cheering people up during very difficult times.
Finishing this weekend, with a show by popular local comedians Comedy Suits, the programme has also featured special appearances by professional theatre companies The Last Baguette and Bash Street Theatre as well as the Devon folk singer Jim Causley.
On top of this busy programme, and despite the many obstacles presented by Covid restrictions, we created and toured our own production of The Merry Wives of Windsor, bringing live theatre to Newcombes Meadow and several village greens. We were also delighted to support an outdoor production of The Snatchers by our brilliant Youth Theatre, performed in the Parish Church car park.
As the days draw in we’re delighted to be able to welcome you back to the Centre, with an exciting and varied mix of theatre, music and film. Our first show on Saturday 25 September at 7.30pm is a poignant drama ConeBoy from writer and musician Clive Parker-Sharp. As a welcome back gift, tickets are free, but please be sure to book a seat.‘
Our October events include Nicola Harrison’s The Becoming , an innovative show combining poetry and music to represent the sea in all its guises, Dodie’s Dream, our home-grown theatre piece tackling the climate crisis, a concert from the amazing folk and jazz musician Lewis Clark and for the kids, Paddleboat Theatre present Margo and Mr Whatsit https://www.paddleboattheatre.co.uk/ , an enchanting show about a young girl’s imaginary friend.
For more details about these, as well as our art classes and our Youth Theatre, visit our website where you can download the autumn e-brochure
Tickets for all shows are available at Ticketsource.
We are, of course, acutely aware that Covid is still with us. For this reason our audience capacity has been reduced so that social distancing can be observed. Please wear a face covering in congested areas such as the foyer and toilet area, and, if you can, while watching the show. Hand sanitiser will be available for use.
