GREEN-minded theatre lovers are being called to get on board with a new community production in Stratford.
Norah’s Ark will bring a modern twist to the story of Noah’s Flood, once a favourite medieval mystery play. In this version, Noah’s wife, Norah, will take centre stage, and while the play will convey a serious environmental message, there will be plenty of fun and spectacle too.
The play is inspired by the 15th century wall paintings in Stratford’s historic Guild Chapel where it will be staged in 2026. It features an original script by local playwrights and offers chances for people to act and stage manage, as well as make props, costumes and sound effects.
Play director Pamela Devine said: “Stratford’s beautiful medieval Guild Chapel is a unique performance space. It is intimate yet grand, ancient but very much part of modern Stratford life.
With the local community’s help Norah’s Ark will reflect its very special qualities in new, creative and exciting ways.”
To start the ball rolling, the Norah’s Ark team will have a stall at the launch of this year’s Great Big Green Week on Saturday June 7 in New Place Gardens, in Chapel Lane, Stratford.
Between 10am and 4pm, people will be able to meet the team, learn more about the production and sign up for free, creative workshops. The workshops, which are suitable for adults and older children, range from puppet making to developing drama skills.
And on Wednesday June 11 at 6.30pm in the Guild Chapel, Elizabeth Freestone, director of the RSC’s 2023 production of The Tempest, will discuss what goes into creating a sustainable theatre production by reusing and recycling staging materials.
Visit www.guildchapel.co.uk for more details.
