Dozens of local people have attended the launch events for a new history project centred around Berrow’s beach shipwreck.
Led by Burnham resident and producer Corrinne Curtis, The Nornen Project aims to bring the story of the shipwreck to life with a series of events and the creation of a brand-new theatrical production.
It’s being held to celebrate the 125th anniversary of this local beach landmark in 2022.
The project is encouraging the community to attend talks, workshops, and research and Development sessions with an outdoor theatrical show planned in 2023.
Launch sessions were held on Wednesday (27th October) and Thursday (4th November) when local historian John Strickland delivered talks about the Nornen and the history of Burnham, Highbridge and Berrow, pictured here.
Corrinne told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “Our two talks with the fabulous John Strickland were very well attended and it was wonderful to see so many people coming together to share our history, as well as their own knowledge and ideas.”
“We’ve had overwhelmingly positive feedback and have made some fantastic new connections with people with a range of knowledge and experience, from seafaring pilots to councillors and historians and those who remember the railway running through Burnham. We’ll be carrying on these conversations and putting what we’ve learnt into our creative process.”
“We’d love to hear from anyone who has a connection to the sea, the lifeboats, those involved in the wreck and the rescue or any other local knowledge which could help us to paint a picture of our community.”
Next up, the project is running ‘Making Theatre’ Workshops at Berrow Village Hall on Tuesday 23rd November from 6pm until 9pm and on Friday 10th December from 10am until 1pm.
These workshops are open to everyone – you don’t need to be an actor and won’t be expected to perform. This is a chance to learn about the techniques that we’ll use to create the show. Delivered by an experienced theatre professional, participants will learn the skills and processes involved in devising: creating a play from scratch, rather than working from a script.
She adds: “In January, the real work begins, with a professional cast and creative team coming together for two weeks to develop the story for the show. We’ll be opening up our rehearsals so that you can come and see a professional show in the making and share your thoughts and ideas.”
“We really want to hear from our local community so that the show fully celebrates who we are. Come and join us at The Princess Theatre on Wednesday 19th January 2022 and 10am til 1pm Thursday 27th January 2022 2pm til 5pm.”
“All activities are free, include free food, and free transport for those who need it. We’ve partnered with The Princess who are taking ticket bookings for us. You can book in person, over the phone on 01278 784464, or online here.
