The Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells has unveiled its annual pantomime canopy project, which has now become an established theatre tradition. Following on from earlier pantomime projects the Assembly Hall Theatre has, once again, collaborated with Kent College, Pembury.
Pupils aged 11 to 15 years were given the opportunity to make a large 3D installation, representative of the Peter Pan pantomime and they came up with a giant 3D pirate ship, measuring approx. 23 feet high x 20 feet wide. The ship has been painted over 5 sheets of plywood, complete with canvas sails, flags and ropes and will be erected above the canopy during the run of the pantomime.
Previous projects have included the infamous crocodile, Cinderella’s slipper, the spinning wheel and the Snow White mural.
The installation which will help publicise the pantomime at the town’s main theatre underlines the contribution arts and culture can make to the local community. As in previous years, our pantomime bucket collections are in support of the local charity Hospice in the Weald. Once the project has been unveiled, it will be displayed above the theatre canopy and will remain in situ until 4 January 2015.
Head teacher Sally-Anne Huang says “Everyone at Kent College has been thrilled with this project. The girls certainly rose to the challenge in large numbers when we explained that the pirate ship was needed and I’m particularly delighted that our thriving and creative art department has had the opportunity to show what they can do in such a public way.”
Brian McAteer says “We work in collaboration with schools, colleges and other local agencies to reach people who would never normally become involved in theatre projects. Working with Kent College has given students an insight into the world of theatre – their enthusiasm towards this project has been immensely encouraging and their dedication has produced a great piece of art”.
Peter Pan will run at the Assembly Hall Theatre from Friday 12th Dec ’14 to Sunday 4th January ’15. The pantomime will star much loved actor, TV star and Holby City heart throb Mark Moraghan and children CBeebie’s show, Swashbuckle presenter Gemma Hunt. Jessica Punch will play Peter Pan and completing this year’s line up is Mark Smee who will be on hand as the hilariously over the top Smee.