Hull Truck Theatre sets the stage to spring back to life
HELP FILL VENUE WITH PAPER FLOWERS FOR ITS COMEBACK
A PLEA for paper flowers has gone out to help Hull Truck Theatre spring back into life.
As the building begins to emerge from lockdown, Yorkshire-based theatre designer, Caitlin Mawhinney, is readying the theatre to welcome back audiences with a Setting The Stage installation.
To reflect what is taking place behind-the-scenes in preparation for live performances, Setting The Stage will include a number of creative phases, all visible from the outside of the building, with the project due to be complete to coincide with the reopening of the theatre for its summer programme on Friday, June 4.
And this is where the call for paper flowers comes in.
Hull Truck is asking members of the community, individuals, schools and community groups, to contribute to Setting The Stage by crafting a flower from paper, card, or any other recyclable materials, and sending it into the theatre for inclusion within the display.
Those contributing are encouraged to write messages, draw pictures or patterns, use bright colours, or upcycle paper you already have, such as an outdated event poster or a Hull Truck Theatre programme.
Caitlin Mawhinney said: “Setting The Stage is an artistic intervention that puts sustainability and the community at the forefront of the theatre’s resurrection.
“We are creating a narrative that will take the public on a journey of anticipation, from the backstage prep to the opening night, while allowing them to become part of the story through their floral contributions.
“It was really important to ensure that the project could be delivered as sustainably as possible and so the incorporation of recyclable flowers seemed like a natural fit.
“Flowers are a great indicator of growth, new beginnings and hope, and seemed like the perfect metaphor to incorporate into this project.”
The installation will include vibrant window displays using props and costumes from previous shows, which will give a glimpse into theatre productions of years gone by and before its 15-month closure due to the pandemic.
Mark Babych, artistic director of Hull Truck Theatre, said: “We are thrilled to be working with Caitlin on this project.
“After a year that has been particularly difficult for freelancers working in the creative industry, it’s fantastic that we’re able to provide her with work.
“There’s a real buzz of excitement across the whole organisation about getting back into the theatre and producing live work, and this project only adds to our excitement.”
To find out how to get involved and for step-by-step instructions on making the paper flowers, please visit Setting The Stage.
Completed flowers can be dropped off at the theatre’s collection box outside the front entrance, or posted to Hull Truck Theatre, 50 Ferensway, Hull, HU2 8LB.
The final deadline for contributions is Thursday, June 3.