The Workshop is the new performing arts venue in King's Lynn
The Garage in Norwich is supporting the opening of a new performing arts venue in Lynn.
The Workshop will be based in the former RBS bank in New Conduit Street, in the town’s Vancouver Quarter.
Although the charity will focus on children and young people, there will be dance, drama and music activities for three-month-olds to those aged 60-plus.
Adam Taylor, CEO of The Garage Trust, said: “We’ve been running a host of projects for young people in King’s Lynn and the surrounding area for a few years now thanks to the National Lottery Community Fund.
“We’ve worked with the likes of Groundwork Gallery, Shakespeare’s Guildhall Trust and were part of The Walks Summer Circus Weekend presented by Lost In Translation Circus with support from Creative Arts East.
“We’re really pleased to be able to back this new venture which is supported by the Virgin Money Foundation.
“We’re grateful to be collaborating with them, but the relationship goes much deeper than just helping us establish this base.
“It’s also about training staff and supporting us as we reach out to those in the area who wouldn’t otherwise engage with the arts.”
Able to seat 60 people, The Workshop’s first step towards eventual independence as a cultural organisation is presenting My First Panto: Little Red Riding Hood from December 16-29.
It’s a co-production between The Workshop and All-In Productions, who have been making interactive family performances for the past four years.
This adaptation of the classic fairytale is designed for under-sevens and performed by three actor-musicians including Rob Gathercole, who appeared in My First Circus: The Littlest Mermaid in King’s Lynn and Norwich earlier this year.
Freddie Main, The Workshop’s participation programme manager, said: “We can’t wait to introduce you to Little Red Riding Hood, her sister Violet, their granny and of course Mr Wolf.
“It’s a great introduction to the theatre for youngsters.
“Following the panto we’ll have a range of classes for people to try, not forgetting our intervention programmes working with people in challenging circumstances.
“We’re grateful for The Garage in Norwich’s support and we’d love to hear from new artists and volunteers interested in helping us deliver great work for young audiences.”
Call The Workshop in Lynn on 01553 277919, visit www.theworkshop.org.uk or email info@theworkshop.org.uk for more information or to book tickets for My First Panto: Little Red Riding Hood.
The Garage is a centre for performing arts in Norwich which supports the creative journeys of participants, audiences and artists. It’s home to The Garage Trust, a registered charity providing support and development opportunities for children, young people and families from all backgrounds.
