History will be made on the streets of Poole this month with the first performances of SALT, the town’s first community play.
With a community cast of around 100 actors and musicians aged nine to 86, as well as many more who have been making props and costumes, building sets and will help with the stewarding, it seems it has galvanised the whole town.
“It is a representation of the passion and creativity of Poole,” says Martha Earley, Creative Engagement Manager at Lighthouse, where SALT is being performed from 27 to 30 July.
“This is a celebration of the sense of pride in our community that brings the people of Poole together, especially those from communities that may not cross paths on an average day.”
Conceived, created and directed by Lynne Forbes and Tamsin Fessey of Angel Exit Theatre from a specially commissioned script by Stephanie Dale, the costumes have been designed and made by students at Arts University Bournemouth, with puppets by Poole-based theatre maker Heidi Steller and original music by Tom Sharkett of the breakthrough band W H Lung. Renowned Dorset folk musician Tim Laycock is musical director and Michelle Nova of La Nova Singers is choir leader.
Weekly craft sessions have taken place at Lighthouse where dedicated crafters have made countless Dorset buttons for the costume and set dressing. A week of craft activities at the Gather unit in Poole’s Dolphin Centre led by theatre maker and activist Lorna Rees of Gobbledegook Theatre saw even more progress made with people dropping in to help with everything from sign writing and lino printing fabric to making foil fish.
The costumes are nothing short of spectacular and the cast and crew caused quite a stir recently when they took to the streets of Poole’s Old Town for a promotional shoot with photographer Jayne Jackson that featured various props and a giant cod puppet.
Set between 1681 and the present day, SALT shines a light on the fascinating historic relationship between Poole and Newfoundland where, by the end of the 17th century, many Dorset families had settled as economic migrants from rural and coastal poverty.
“The collaboration between professional creatives and volunteers from across the local community has been nothing short of inspirational,” adds Lighthouse Chief Executive Elspeth McBain.
“This kind of collaborative working adds value and meaning to our understanding of Poole by highlighting the continued relevance of its rich heritage and celebrating its vibrant contemporary culture.”
Tickets available now at https://www.lighthousepoole.co.uk/event/salt-a-community-play-for-poole/
