A YOUTH theatre company is taking to the road for a series of open air shows this summer.

North Oxfordshire’s Cherwell Theatre Company is exploring the world of Greek mythology with a sequel to its 2019 play Myth, which told gripping tales from the classics.

This summer’s Myth II recounts stories of the great heroes of the Bronze Age alongside some of the characters who were foolish enough to challenge the mighty Olympian Gods.

“It’s thrilling for us to take another accessible theatre piece, devised with young people in collaboration with professional actors, designers and theatre technicians to our Cherwell Community this summer,” says Artistic Director Tristan Jackson-Pate who will direct the play.

“Just like in 2019, our youth steering board has designed this project and will create festival events to inspire and bring together communities.”

The play will visit a variety of locations, from Heyford Park housing estate, to Banbury and Bicester marketplaces, even popping up at community events in Banbury’s Princess Diana Park and Ron Groves Park in Kidlington.

Mr Jackson-Pate said: “From the pluck of Perseus to the arrogance of Arachne, great literary characters will astound and appal you in this hilarious new play featuring live music, slapstick comedy, dazzling puppetry and a Greek chorus to boot.

“This vibrant community project will be devised by professional theatre makers in collaboration with young people, is presented as a series of ‘pop up festival’ events featuring performances from other local groups and artists.”

The performance will visit:

  • l Kidlington Play Day Event, Ron Groves Park, Maple Avenue, Kidlington. August 14 1pm
  • l St Edburg’s Primary School, Pioneer Way, Bicester, August 15, 1pm (event starts at 11am)
  • l Summerfest Event, Princess Diana Park, Bradley Arcade, Bretch Hill, Banbury, August 17, 1pm (event starts at 11am)
  • l Banbury Market Place, Banbury, August 18, 1pm
  • l Sheep Street, Bicester, August 21, noon
  • l The Green, Upper Heyford, Bicester. August 22, 1pm (event starts at 11am)

Admittance to each performance is free and all are welcome, with no need to book in advance. The running time is approximately 90 minutes (including an interval) and is suitable for all ages.

“We’re very excited to be presenting Myth II at a number of community events, which is a fantastic opportunity for the young people of CTC to showcase their passion for theatre and for the communities themselves to experience and enjoy all the wonderful talent North Oxfordshire has to offer.” says Stacey White, Company Coordinator at Cherwell Theatre Company. “During the summer months, I’m always looking for new ways to engage and inspire my children. These community festivals are not only on the doorstep but completely free and there’s something for all the family.”

More information on the community events themselves can be found at cherwelltheatrecompany.co.uk