The four seasons were arguing about which of them was the best.
Winter says, ‘Snow is so beautiful and everyone loves Christmas!’
Spring smiles. ‘But you can’t get better than bright sunshine and fresh, new flowers.’
Summer laughs. “Clearly I’m the best! Hot weather and holidays - you can’t beat that! What about you autumn, what can you offer?”
Autumn leaves.
Welcome to the Theatre Autumn Newsletter! As ever, do check out the Cultivate newsletter, as that is also a significant part of Take Art Theatre’s programme.
Theatre-Makers Network Event
On Tuesday 26th September, a dozen theatre-makers met at the David Hall to share updates, stories and ideas over tea and cake. We always find these events extremely inspiring and a good reminder of the tremendous creative work happening in Somerset.
The conversation never faltered, and we covered a whole range of topics. We were particularly impressed by a demonstration of the Sovereign Nature giant puppet created by Sharon Jacksties and Jem Dick; this wonderful creation evolved after
Sharon shared her ideas at the previous network event. Greeted with a positive response, she then submitted a successful ACE application and Sovereign Nature was born. You can find out more about the project on Youtube here.
A question was raised whether there are any improv groups in Somerset. If you are aware of any and/or you might be interested in joining one, then please let us know and we’ll co-ordinate the response: theatre@takeart.org
Artists’ Support Resources
As we mentioned in the last newsletter, we’ve joined forces with several other companies and organisations in Somerset to produce a guide for performing artists and freelance creatives in the county to know who they can go to for different types of support, for example: who can offer advice on funding applications or who might have rehearsal space available?
This resource is now available to download from the artist support on our website here.
Bridgwater Events Small Grants Programme
As part of Somerset Council’s Town Deal funding from Government to regenerate Bridgwater town centre, funding has been allocated for a small grants programme to create new and exciting events in Bridgwater.
Grants are available from £500 and, where an organisation shows unique creativity, up to £10,000 to support organisations in their delivery of new events and activities that will draw people to the Town Centre as well as animate the new and old spaces across Bridgwater in innovative ways.
Do check out the Guidance and follow this link to an Expression of Interest Form.
Please contact Beccy Armory for more information or to chat through thoughts and ideas via events@bridgwater-tc.gov.uk.
Dramatic Writing & Directing Workshops
The Merlin is running a programme of workshops, led by Anthony Clark, award-winning playwright and director with over 30 years’ experience of working in professional theatre.
Dramatic Writing Workshops: 7 to 9pm on Tuesdays 5th and 19th September; 3rd and 17th October; and 7th November 2023.
Directing for the Stage Workshops: 12th and 26th September; 10th and 31st October; 14th November 2023.
For more information see www.merlintheatre.co.uk or www.anthonyclarktheatre.com.
Next Newsletter
As you’ve seen above, we can occasionally promote other events and opportunities. So, if you have something that you’d like to be included in the next mail-out (which will cover December 23 to January 24) please fill in this link with full details by 17 November 2023.
All good wishes,
Mark and Ruth
Take Art Theatre team