Show goes on Theatre group hit by thieves
APOP-UP theatre production in a Bristol park has been disrupted by brazen thieves.
Bristol-based theatre company Insane Root has been hosting a production of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet in the old swimming pool at Eastville Park since Friday, June 15.
However, after a successful run of shows the group’s progress has been hit by thieves.
On Tuesday, July 3, the crew believe two men broke into the set by climbing in and ransacking the backstage area in broad daylight at about 5.30pm.
They stole miscellaneous items worth about £100 overall, including a shovel, a megaphone, a crucifix necklace and drill bits. They also took a scaffold pole which was then used to try to prise open a shipping container on the grass which housed the temporary bar.
After ending their attempts to get into the bar, the men ran off in the direction of the path between the old swimming pool and play area.
A water pipe that supplies the bar was also smashed the same evening, although it is not known if that was related.
A passer-by managed to take two photographs of the men as they attempted to gain entry into the shipping containers. One is wearing sunglasses, an abstract patterned shirt and black shorts, while the other is topless and wearing dark shorts with white flecks on them.
The play’s producer Justin Palmer, said: “They haven’t taken much, but we are obviously deeply concerned and frustrated this has happened.
“We don’t keep anything valuable inside the pool as a precaution, but wanted help to see if anyone saw anything on Tuesday evening or perhaps recognises the two individuals.
“The show went on, we were able to keep going. The cast rallied.
“Everyone in the community has been lovely, it’s just a shame a couple of idiot opportunists have come along to spoil it.”
Avon and Somerset Police have been approached for a statement.
If you have any information on the incident contact Insane Root on info@insaneroot.co.uk