A CELEBRATED dance and performance company is seeking 80 volunteers to take part in one of its acclaimed community spectaculars.
Sunderland-based Southpaw Company is looking for dozens of participants for its next production, HOME, which will celebrate the opening of Sunderland’s multi-purpose venue, Culture House, in September.
Over the years, hundreds of North Easterners from all backgrounds have taken part in the innovative company’s large-scale community performances often featuring projections, aerial work and latterly, digital immersion.
Now Southpaw, which is based at the city’s Sheepfolds Stables, is recruiting for its latest work, HOME, a city-wide bold, immersive production which will feature live performance, digital visuals and powerful storytelling about Sunderland. Participants will perform alongside Southpaw’s professional dancers – live on the building, in its windows and within immersive digital scenes. R
Robby Graham, Artistic Director at Southpaw, said: “Participants don’t have to be professional performers, they simply need curiosity, commitment and a willingness to be part of something very special. It will tell a story of who we are, where we’ve come from and what we might become.”
Leanne Littlewood, Culture House Director, said: “We’re incredibly excited to be working with Southpaw on the delivery of HOME, our first immersive building takeover at Culture House.
“Southpaw operates at the cutting edge of performance and technology, bringing together traditional artistic practice with transformative AR and VR experiences that elevate and enhance live performance. Their work demonstrates the remarkable ways technology can deepen cultural experiences and open up new possibilities for audiences.
“What makes Southpaw truly special is their inclusive and supportive approach. Whether you are an experienced performer or have never stepped onto a stage before, they create a welcoming environment where everyone can take part and contribute. We’d love to see people of all ages involved, from young people looking to spend quality time with grandparents, to parents wanting to explore something creative alongside their children.
“This is a unique opportunity to be part of the Culture House story and help shape an extraordinary new cultural experience. We encourage everyone to get involved and join us on this exciting journey. Thanks go to our funders, the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority and the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.”
The project is being funded by the UK Government as part of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund with thanks to North East Mayoral Strategic Authority.
Participants need to be aged 16 years and above and to live in Sunderland or the surrounding area. All bodies, identities and experiences are welcome.
To take part, contact https://southpaw.org.uk/home-jointhemovement