TWO OF Reading’s theatres are joining forces to hold a pair of events for deaf people in and around Berkshire.
Reading Repertory Theatre in central Reading has teamed up with The Watermill in Newbury to bring events to the venues which will seek to engage more with the deaf communities.
On Thursday, November 2, The Watermill is hosting a light buffet dinner followed by a captioned performance of Macbeth, which will also be attended by British Sign Language (BSL) interpreters.
Then on Saturday, November 11, Reading Rep is holding a family fun afternoon, including a free drama session, followed by cream tea.
This event will also be attended by BSL interpreters.
Lixi Chivas, community associate at The Watermill Theatre said: “It’s really exciting that deaf representation has been flourishing in recent years, in lots of areas.
“As theatres, we’re both committed to welcoming deaf audiences and creatives– we want to get to know our local deaf community better, as well as provide opportunities for BSL learners to improve their signing.
“The more we get to know each other, the more connections we can build together.”
Chris Cuming, Associate director and director of Engage said, “It’s so good to be working with the Watermill Theatre on these exciting events.
“We can’t wait to welcome more people to our theatres and to get to know more about the communities around us.
He explained: “As a new venue, Reading Rep is taking every opportunity to learn about its community and how we can make our venue more inclusive and make sure more people get to experience live theatre.
“Come down and have a chat over a nice cup of tea and cake and get to know Reading’s only professional producing theatre.”
The dinner at The Watermill Theatre takes place on Thursday, November 2, from 6pm, followed by a performance of Macbeth from 7pm.
The dinner is free and does not require booking, but tickets to the following performance are available via: watermill.org.uk/macbeth_2023.
Reading Repertory Theatre’s family fun afternoon takes place on Saturday, November 11, from 3pm.
More details about Reading Rep are available via: readingrep.com
