I'm bringing some magic and escapism to Washington with my LED show
The magical show features dragons, dance and a dose of escapism.
“I think we all need a bit of magic and escapism sometimes,” says one of Sunderland’s most magical, imaginative artists who is inviting audiences into a realm of dragons, dance and LED escapism this weekend.
Director and artist Penella Bee, of by Bee Enchanted CIC, is staging Azra Glow at Arts Centre Washington on Saturday, November 7.
Audiences can step into a glowing world of dragons, courage and imagination in this immersive family theatre experience combining LED circus, UV magic, dance, puppetry, music and storytelling.
Inspired by the stories of local author Risaria Langley, the show celebrates individuality and the magic of embracing who you are and follows Azra, a young dragon keeper, on a magical journey of discovery, friendship and finding the courage to be yourself.
The show features professional performers alongside a community cast and brings together different ages and abilities in a colourful celebration of creativity and belonging.
Penella said: “I absolutely love my city and I'm really passionate about creating magical, imaginative work here.
“One of the things that inspires me most is bringing people together who might never normally get the chance to perform in a professional theatre production.
“We have people from all walks of life in our shows, including community performers in their 70s, and adults with additonal needs working alongside professional dancers and artists. I love that everyone brings something different, and seeing people grow in confidence is just wonderful.”
She added: “We're also trying to make theatre feel welcoming to people who might find a traditional theatre experience difficult, including children and adults with additional needs.
“We've created visual guides, thought carefully about sensory elements and made space for people to meet the dragons and performers.”
Azra GLOW takes place on Saturday 7 November at Arts Centre Washington, with shows at 11am and 2pm. Tickets are: Adults £10 | Children £8 | Family £30 from sunderlandculture.org.uk