Live theatre returned to Brading New Town Hall on Friday evening (21st August) for the first time in 5 years, as The Bull Ring Theatre Youth Performing Arts Group presented their original musical Lovestruck Alley to a sell-out audience.
The performance marked a major milestone for the new Performing Arts Partnership between The Bull Ring Theatre and Brading Town Council, which aims to bring regular live entertainment back to the town while creating opportunities for local people to get involved in the performing arts.
Over the past twelve months, the young cast have worked tirelessly to write, develop, rehearse and produce Lovestruck Alley themselves. Set in a struggling 1980s bowling alley threatened with demolition, the original musical follows a group of friends as they fight to save the place they call home while finding out who they truly are and falling in love along the way.
Filled with humour, heart, romance and an energetic original soundtrack, the production celebrates friendship and the power of a community coming together.
The audience rewarded the cast with enthusiastic applause throughout the evening, bringing a memorable first chapter to the theatre’s new programme of performances.
Audience members were full of praise after the show.
“Absolutely brilliant. Such a talented bunch of kids! We had a ‘ball’!”
“It was funny, heartfelt and packed with energy. You could see just how much work had gone into every scene.”
Article continues below this advertisement “What a wonderful evening; it’s fantastic to see live theatre back in Brading, and even better that it’s being led by such talented young people.”
Paul A. T. Wilson, Director of The Bull Ring Theatre, said:
“Tonight wasn’t just about putting on a show. It was about proving what young people can achieve when they’re given the opportunity, encouragement and belief to create something extraordinary. Every member of this cast should be immensely proud of what they’ve accomplished over the last year. The audience was extremely generous and we raised £230 for the performing arts project, as a non-profit every penny goes a very long way.
“This is only the beginning. We have an exciting programme of performances planned for the community over the coming months, including the world premiere of our brand-new original musical A Clockwork Heart this September. Tickets are already going fast, and we can’t wait to welcome audiences back to The Bull Ring Theatre for many more unforgettable nights with many more free shows.”
The success of Lovestruck Alley marks the start of a new era for live performance in Brading, with The Bull Ring Theatre committed to delivering accessible, community-led theatre and providing creative opportunities for people of all ages across the Isle of Wight.
Tickets available from www.thebullring.uk, by phone: 07500864417 or The Brading Town Council
For more information on The Bull Ring Theatre and the Youth Group, email: [email protected]
