Physical theatre company WinterWalker is to tour the Midlands in February and March with its first major production, Three Keepers.
Three Keepers is a play without words for those aged eight and over. It is a tale of life on a lighthouse told through a blend of physical theatre, dance and comedy. It is inspired by the silent film clowning of Buster Keaton and Charlie Chaplin.
The production has been made possible with an investment from Arts Council England and by Derby dance house Déda, which is supporting Derbyshire-based WinterWalker as its resident artists.
Director Kitty Winter from Belper explains that the inspiration for the show comes from an exhibition on lighthouses at the National Maritime Museum.
“We were struck by how small the living quarters were and we imagined three big men having to live and work together in that tiny space and getting on one another’s nerves. That seemed like a brilliant starting point for physical comedy and the production is like a classic sitcom set-up.
“We make shows that romp about in the borderlands between dance and theatre, and we like to work with performers from a range of backgrounds.
“Three Keepers features two actor-comedians and a contemporary dancer. We’re exploring how the discipline and grace of dance can combine with the anarchy and emotional punch of clowning. The show is a comedy but there are definitely some moving moments too.”
Composer Wayne Walker-Allen describes the company’s attitude to making work for family audiences: “we think good theatre should work for everyone, young and old.
“We hope that Three Keepers will be funny and engaging for children but equally entertaining for their parents and grandparents, particularly with the nostalgic silent-movie playing style. However, you don’t have to be a child or even bring a child to enjoy the show.”
Three Keepers will première at Déda on 7 February. It then tours to Buxton Opera House on 10 February, Embrace Arts in Leicester on 14 February, Warwick Arts Centre in Coventry on 15 and 16 February, The Castle in Wellingborough on 20 February, The Riverhead Theatre in Louth, Lincolnshire on 21 February, Lincoln Drill Hall on 28 February and the Brewhouse Arts Centre in Burton-on-Trent on 7 March.