REDDITCH’S very own Jestaminute Community Theatre CIC have been nominated for a highly-coveted Epic Award run by Voluntary Arts, a UK and Ireland-wide organisation working to promote participation in creative cultural activities.
The community interest company, has been shortlisted for The People’s Choice award following their involvement with Winyates-based Redditch East Aspiring Communities CIC (REACH) on the pantomime – ‘The Needlewitch is Coming’.
But the need the help of the people of Redditch if they are going to clinch the trophy.
Celebrating the rich local heritage in needle-making, The Needlewitch is Coming combined elements from a host of children’s classics including Little Red Riding Hood and Goldilocks and the Three Bears.
Bringing together people of all ages and backgrounds, the panto was developed by local residents making it a truly community-oriented event.
Helped by experts from Jestaminute, the group worked from concept to delivery, developing skills in multiple areas including scripting, performing, costume design, staging and production management.
And th show has played an integral role in fostering relations across the community.
Volunteers from the local Community Sheds group helped build scenery and props, whilst local school Ipsley RSA Academy hosted the two public performances.
Pupils gained invaluable experience managing the light and sound for both the final rehearsals and performances.
Stewart Sanderson, Arts Development Officer at Redditch Borough Council, said: “We’re delighted by the news that Jestaminute have been shortlisted for an Epic Award.
“Working closely with the company in Redditch, we know how important they are to communities here and it’s great to see their commitment to the voluntary and community arts sectors recognised in this way.”
The company is appealing for people to get behind them in their bid to win the award; the winner is determined by popular vote – and the closing date is Sunday, September 20, 2020.
• To have your say, visit here.
