Archive News
Transform Inverclyde: Bolt
On 7 and 8 March the culmination of a project led by the National Theatre of Scotland that involved two schools in Port Glasgow, and was co-sponsored by Riverside Inverclyde took place at Port Glasgow Town Hall. The talent, energy and passion of the young people involved in the large-scale, multi-media event bowled over audiences.
The National Theatre of Scotland Learn team, and associated artists, worked with students from Port Glasgow High School and St. Stephen's High School, Inverclyde, from October 2007 to produce an exciting event entitled Transform Inverclyde: Bolt.
Devised, created and performed by the students themselves, Bolt brings together explosive elements of drama, film, creative writing and design installations with the physical street art-form ‘parkour'. Set to a specially created drum ‘n' bass soundtrack, Bolt is inspired by the River Clyde and the dramatic impact it has had on the people of Inverclyde living and working along its banks.
The event is a culmination of a series of workshops and intensive training weeks with both schools, led by visiting professionals from the National Theatre of Scotland. In addition to the cast of over 100 who performed at the event, there have been contributions from students who worked on the creative writing, design, filming and recorded music featured in the event. One of the world's leading glass artists, Greenock-born Alec Galloway, was also involved in working with the students on the project.
Simon Sharkey, Associate Director - Learn, National Theatre of Scotland, said: “This work has been inspirational. The schools and community have seized the opportunity to create a cutting edge theatre event that gives voice to their story. I have been overwhelmed by the talent, tenacity, commitment and sheer energy of this community. In a time of great change and challenge, this diverse community have given of themselves in a way that is selfless and inspiring. I'm sure their story will move you.”
Bill Nicol, Chief Executive, Riverside Inverclyde commented: “Riverside Inverclyde is delighted to have played a part in securing the National Theatre of Scotland's involvement with local schools, groups and artistic communities in Inverclyde. I welcome a project of this stature and nature, as it engenders in our young people ambition, self-confidence and a sense of pride - all valuable qualities required to seize the range of opportunities the physical regeneration of Inverclyde's waterfront is bringing to the area.”
For more visit www.nationaltheatrescotland.com/learn
