Article date – 27 September 2018
‘Black’ (Monday 1 October, 7pm) is a vital and challenging show from award-winning writer Keith Saha that fuses theatre with lyricism and live DJ soundscapes from Chunky (Riot Jazz/Hoya Hoya), as well as the raw artistic talent of Abby Melia, and looks to shed light on the racial tensions that exist in the UK today.
Black returns to St Helens after a sell-out performance last year – where it was described by audience members as “inspiring, insightful about young people and wider society issues” – and coincides with Black History Month.
In it, young girl Nikki struggles with her father’s seemingly prejudicial views when a Zimbabwean family moves in across the street.
Presented by 20 Stories High, Black is suitable for teenagers 13 and above and adults.
Then, Sophia Hatfield’s ‘Common Lore’ (Friday 5 October, 6pm) will present a new take on fairy tales, fusing traditional stories with mobile phones, projections, spoken word and live electronic music.
Scarlet, on her way to visit her Nan, begins to reinvent the childhood stories she knows so well, finally discovering her future path in her own unique way.
Presented by Sophia Hatfield and Stute Theatre, in association with Northern Broadsides, Common Lore is suitable for young people aged 11 and above and adults.
Both performances last 60 minutes, with a chance for discussion afterwards, and there’s free pizza for audiences at Black and Common Lore shows!
Councillor Anthony Burns, St Helens Council’s Cabinet Member for Community Based and Focused Services, said: “We’re really keen to engage with young people – who are often the hardest to reach – through our library services, and with these two events we’re offering something truly unique and exciting. Come along and see for yourself the creativity and talent on display in our libraries with Cultural Hubs.”
Both shows are free to attend, but booking is advised. Book online at www.culturalhubs.eventbrite.co.uk – where you can find the full line-up of amazing Cultural Hubs events – or call into any St Helens Library to reserve your place. Alternatively, call 01744 677446 to book and find out more.
Cultural Hubs is funded by Arts Council England and delivered by St Helens Council’s Library Service, which is an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation.
