Kiln Theatre, today announces the centrepiece of A Friendly Society – their National Lottery-supported project aimed to open up the theatre, its heritage and the local history of Brent to both its existing audiences and the wider community – the community play The Seven Ages of Patience by Chinonyerem Odimba.
Artistic Director of Kiln Theatre, Indhu Rubasingham said today, “In The Seven Ages of Patience, Chino has written a really beautiful celebration of our local community and this area’s history. She has woven in and empowered local voices of the community and the pride of their heritage that has not only had a local impact, but also a national resonance on our landscape. This play, in the skilful hands of Katie, will be a wonderful platform for our community engagement work. I can’t wait to welcome over 100 non-professional people of all ages to own our newly renovated stage and building and experience the true magic of putting on live theatre.”
Supported by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Amal (a Saïd Foundation Programme), The Seven Ages of Patience is inspired by research, historic events and first-hand accounts from local residents. Directed by Katie Posner, the production will see over 100 people aged 11 to 77 years old from the local areas take to the Kiln Theatre stage from 25 to 28 September. All tickets for all performances are free, and the matinee performance on the Saturday will form part of a community day when the theatre will be open throughout the day for free activities for children, workshops, a free family screening in the cinema and an exhibition.
Spanning eight decades, The Seven Ages of Patience is an epic, contemporary myth that tells the stories of hundreds through one woman’s experience of the good and more difficult moments that have defined modern Brent, and British history.
This new play for the community sets out to prove that, despite experiencing times of adversity and intolerance, ordinary people can have an extraordinary impact.
All tickets are free. If patrons wish to make a donation towards the project or similar future programming, all gifts are warmly welcomed. For local businesses interested in supporting the outreach work, please contact [email protected].
