Show number two announced by Horden's Ensemble '84
After Mother Courage, the new focus is local
Ensemble ’84, which signalled its intent with a triumphant opening production of Mother Courage back in May, has announced its – very different – follow-up.
Coming in August is Pits, People and Players, marking the 125th anniversary of Horden, the former pit village in County Durham where the new theatre company has taken over the old Methodist Church.
The opening play by Bertolt Brecht, a classic which is probably being produced somewhere in the world at any time, is a visceral comment on war by one of theatre’s big names.
That was a collaboration with the South African Isango Ensemble.
This second offering, the South Africans having departed, is very much home-grown and home-focused, as explained by Ensemble ’84 director Mark Dornford-May.
“This show is not just about history, it’s about heart,” he says.
“Pits, People and Players is a work of love and fierce pride for Horden, created from the stories, scars and dreams of its people.
“We’ve taken the poetry of the everyday and turned it into theatre that’s rooted, raw and resonant.
“At a time when communities like this are too often overlooked, this piece reclaims space for voices that matter. It’s a celebration, a reckoning and, above all, a tribute to the power of people and this place.”
It’s to be a devised show arising from research involving cast members, all drawn from County Durham and mostly very recent recruits to the world of theatre.
We’re told the piece will look at the past of a village “forged in coal, carved by industry and transformed by change”, but also to a future marked by shifting demographics, new challenges and a fierce desire for renewal.
The company hopes the show, blending theatre, music and storytelling, will become part of the history it celebrates, asking vital questions about identity, belonging and the meaning of community in a changing world.
Julia Handelman-Smith, director of County Durham’s Into the Light creative initiative, says: “We’re proud that Ensemble ’84 is bringing this remarkable production to life as part of Into the Light.
“Pits, People and Players is a shining example of how local arts can reflect national conversations - about community, resilience and the stories we choose to carry forward.
“It’s a testament to the talent and vision in County Durham, and a powerful reminder of the role the arts play in regeneration, connection and belonging.”
The 90-minute show will run at Horden Methodist Church, Blackhills Road SR8 4LQ from August 19 to 23 at 7.30pm (August 19 is preview night and there’s a 2.30pm matinee on August 23).
Tickets from the Ensemble ’84 website or call 0191 524 2578.