Full Circle return with Kasabian cover theatre show

Having showcased their talent in their debut film screening, the Full Circle Theatre Group are preparing for their first live performance at ARC.  The group of adults with learning difficulties will perform this new devised piece of theatre on Thursday 1 July.

The piece of mimed theatre, which draws its inspiration from the song Happiness by Kasabian, covers the story of a couple’s relationship, the breakdown in communication and the gradual rebuilding and rediscovery of love and trust. Full Circle member Andrew Mitchell explains how the four scene story materialized from there:

‘We had to practice by lying on the floor and listening to the music. Then we looked at how we wanted to make that into a play’

The production follows the success of the theatre group’s film screening of their first DVD, Is Toto Dead? at ARC in January 2010.

Although it will be the groups first live performance at ARC, this will not be the first time they have acted together in front of an audience, but as Full Circle member Brian Shaw explains, this time will be very different,

‘It’ll be different and more like proper acting. We’ve never used lights and a stage before so it will feel more professional’.

Stockton Borough Council development worker, Caroline Rankin agreed that this change in performance has changed the groups approach noting that ‘they are taking this more seriously.’

Jenni Owen, Community Arts and Education Officer at ARC has worked alongside the group of nine adults, who all suffer from a range of learning disabilities, to plan a two year programme of theatre work: 

“After the success of Is Toto Dead? I am so proud to promote Happiness, knowing that the group now have the skills to devise a live performance which is both moving and an excellent piece of theatre.”

Lindsey Porteous, who worked with the members scripting, acting and production skills for Is Toto Dead? has supported the group with the development of Happiness, she said:

“The group are feeling more confident as they continue with their acting, especially as this will be their first live performance in a public building. They’ve been working a lot on their projection for the performance.”

Alison Groat of Full Circle, has noticed the improvements that they are making as they move onwards and upwards,

‘‘The performances are getting harder but at the same time are becoming easier for us as we practice more.’

Having been based at the ARC for two days a week since 2008, Jenni was pleased that the venue has recently secured funding from the Northern Rock Foundation for this arrangement to continue:

“ARC is very proud of the work Full Circle continues to make and it has been a fantastic achievement to see how the group have become part of the venue.”