WIREDGOV

In an age of climate change, one West Midlands theatre company is looking to alter our attitudes to water, thanks to funding from Arts Council England.

The Bone Ensemble were awarded £44,748 of National Lottery funding from the Arts Council to develop a new show that encourages audience to think again about crucial environmental issues.

Working in an industry-first collaboration with Severn Trent Water, the Environment Agency, University of Birmingham, local and community organisations, The Bone Ensemble have created Gulp! - a tale which follows a child’s journey as she learns more about the world. Exploring the beauty and challenges of water in an age of environmental change, the inclusive piece for families and young people uses sound, music, physical actions and lots of water onstage.

Gulp! (c) Graeme Braidwood

Peter Knott, Area Director for Arts Council England, said:

“Using sounds, paddling pools and water pistols, Gulp! promises to help audiences consider the consequences of their actions and make informed choices – all through the power of theatre.

“We are always looking for new ways to encourage environmental sustainability and Gulp! is a fantastic example of how the arts can empower families to care about the world and natural resources, and we’re pleased to support its development with our National Lottery funding.”

A water droplet. Free image.

Dr Adam Ledger, Co-Director of The Bone Ensemble, said:

"Despite growth of feeling and concern about environmental issues, there is a lot to do in terms of positive, innovative theatre-making. We are aiming to make changes, and the extent of support and collaboration with funding bodies, charities and major organisations like Severn Trent Water, shows how widely this urgency is felt.

"Not a day goes by without a shocking headline or new documentary about damage to our planet. Some experience a feeling of information overload, and we've found that it can be emotive, character led and thought-provoking messages that can be the catalysts for change."

Gulp! opens at MAC Birmingham in September before heading out on a national tour.

Visit the website or watch the trailer.