Making in Somerset was a day showcasing original theatre, spoken word, dance and puppetry. 60 artists and promoters attended, all of whom were keen to share their ideas and receive feedback and networking opportunities from the theatre community. The day got off to a great start with stand-up poet Jonny Fluffypunk and his anarchic one-man show Man up Jonny Fluffypunk, comically exploring one man’s struggle with fatherhood and responsibility. Along the way we had 17 other extracts and work-in-progress including an hilarious walkabout theatre piece from Bad Egg Theatre featuring two monstrous babies in a pram! The day concluded with a beautiful extract of dance music and story from Wild Words.

Making in Somerset demonstrated the exciting potential and talent within the Somerset theatre community, while helping to generate a vital sense of camaraderie and mutual support.

Mark Heylar, Co-Director of Theatre at Take Art, said “We all left feeling very optimistic about the future of Somerset grassroots theatre and we are extremely excited about many of the shows currently being developed.”

Theatre maker Selina Keedwell said, “It was a wonderful chance to meet and observe such an array of talents, from across the globe, in a little village hall in the middle of nowhere.”

Somerset Theatre maker and actor Nick White said, “Probably one of the most useful and important and inspiring and thought provoking events I’ve ever been to. This year’s Making in Somerset event hammered home to me why coming home to the county to make theatre is going to be one of the best decisions I have ever made.”

Image is taken from an excerpt by Bad Egg Theatre Company, Maddy Lennox and Rosy Roberts.