National Theatre is joined by Bromley-by-Bow centre for Shakespeare’s Pericles

People of all ages who use the Bromley-by-Bow community centre are among a National Theatre company of 200 working with professional artists to perform Shakespeare’s Pericles.

Rehersals for the National Theatre's Pericles production. Picture: James Bellorini - Credit: James Bellorini

Their musical version of classic story goes on stage next month at ‘The National’ to launch its ‘Public Acts’ programme involving communities with professional theatre.

It marks the mid-point of a two-year partnership with the Bromley-by-Bow centre and seven other organisations that work in communities. Workshops, trips and exchanges have been arranged to form part of the company for Pericles.

“Working with ‘the National’ has been one of the best things we’ve done,” the centre’s Rob Trimble said. “Everything about it underpins our belief in the importance of taking part in the arts for all people, regardless of backgrounds.”

The National has commissioned writer Chris Bush to adapt Shakespeare’s Pericles which is directed by Emily Lim and choreographed by Robby Graham with music by James Fortune.

Reaching for the starts... Bromley-by-Bow community gets ready to perform at the National Theatre. Picture: James Bellorini - Credit: James Bellorini

Emily said: “The ‘Public Acts’ programme is founded on the belief that theatre can be a force for change, bringing communities together with the power of collective purpose and imagination. We are celebrating our first year of these partnerships with our first production under the National Theatre.”

Pericles is the story of a prince who has everything but understands little. He flees home when a reckless act threatens his safety and take to sea, driven from shore to shore. Only by reaching the ends of the earth does he finally understand what it means to come home.

The production runs from August 26 to 28 at the National Theatre’s Olivier Stage, tickets now available online.