Huddersfield-based Syngenta is the headline sponsor for this year’s community production at the Lawrence Batley Theatre.
Syngenta has a long history of supporting the theatre’s work with the local community.
This year the company have chosen to support the theatre’s community production of The Great Gatsby, which opens on Thursday (September 12).
This project celebrates and champions the diverse community of Kirklees and gives everyone the chance to explore their creativity in creating and performing in a main stage production.
The community production opens the theatre’s doors to anyone in Kirklees who wants to take part in a professionally produced production.
The project is led by a team of experienced creatives. It is completely free for participants to take part in, and works to help people foster new skills, create friendships, build confidence and improve mental health and wellbeing.
Lawrence Batley Theatre by: Mark Bickerdike
This year will see the introduction of a relaxed performance to the community production as the theatre strives to create a welcoming environment for all.
Relaxed performances are designed to create an enjoyable and relaxed atmosphere for anyone who would benefit from a more laid-back experience at the theatre.
During the show subtle changes are made to the sound and lighting effects and the auditorium lights remain on.
The theatre team expect more noise than usual from the audience during a relaxed performance and they do not want anyone to worry about being quiet.
Audience members are also free to come and go from the auditorium at any point during the show if they need to take a break from the action.
Becky Dash, chief executive of Lawrence Batley Theatre, said: “Our annual community production is the centrepiece of our year and the most incredible celebration of the rich talent right here in Huddersfield.
“We are so pleased to have the support of Syngenta once again to ensure that this opportunity can continue to be available to everyone in our community to take part in a professional level production and be a part of the Lawrence Batley Theatre family.”
Carl Sykes, community relations manager at Syngenta, said: “Central to our purpose of bringing plant potential to life is valuing diversity and inclusion and accelerating innovation.
“Our partnership with Lawrence Batley Theatre in this year’s community production reaches across all communities, making performing arts accessible and providing enrichment opportunities for all.”
The community production is a modern adaptation of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, adapted by local writer Chris O’Connor.
The show will be performed on the main stage from Thursday September 12 to Saturday September 14. The relaxed performance will be held on Saturday September 14 at 2pm.
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