Theatre group at Delapré Abbey announces new autumn programmes for all ages in Northampton

Warts and All Theatre has announced a new programme of autumn activity at their new home in Delapré Abbey.

In July, Warts and All Theatre was announced as Delapré Abbey’s new resident theatre company where youngsters can pay as they feel in a bid to break down barriers in participation.

Together they will perform productions on the abbey’s lawns, take part in young actor workshops, holiday programmes and energetic activities for older generations and young families.

From September, Warts and All Theatre are moving to a 'pay on your terms' membership scheme, where participants choose a scheme that suits their personal situation. Payments include £10, £20 and £30 monthly direct debit options, with all members receiving the same benefits and access to weekly sessions.

“It’s all part of our renewed vision to make arts and culture accessible for as many people as possible," said Christopher Elmer-Gorry CEO of Warts and All Theatre.

"By offering a more flexible way of engaging with us, we will make more voices heard, society fairer and in turn enable communities to thrive."

Each activity can be taught face-to-face, through 'blended learning' or online.

Over the past five months, Warts and All has ran online masterclasses with some of the leading lights in the theatre world such as Adrian Lester, Benjamin Zephaniah, Fiona Shaw, Rob Brydon and Julie Walters, as well as virtual co-created plays and online acting training sessions.

These programmes have meant that young people and their families have continued to have the chance to share their experiences, express themselves and remain in touch with the arts

during lockdown.

Xander McAuley, 18, from Far Cotton said: “Delapré Abbey is a place where I’ve spent so much time with my friends and family. I think it’s the same for most people in my community.

"Thinking about all the opportunities that are possible to capitalise on with Warts and All Theatre is incredibly exciting, as I reckon we’ll gain a whole new audience."

The new programmes will give people of all ages a chance to perform, direct and engage in 'life-changing extraordinary' theatre, through a diverse selection of weekly

activity, including:

Young Actors sessions for ages 4-21, Young Producers sessions for ages 12-25, Home Ed Drama for ages 7-13, Early Years and Families for under 4s and senior sessions for over 50s.

Throughout the weekly sessions members of the group will also work together to learn from each other to support the creation of friendships and connections with other like-minded individuals.

For more information on Warts and All Theatre’s new weekly programmes visit their website or email [email protected]