Strathcross make long-anticipated return to the stage in celebration of the 850th anniversary of Newcastle-under-Lyme being a borough

11th July 2023

New Vic Borderlines’ Strathcross company of people with learning difficulties united for the first time since before the pandemic to deliver a show that celebrated 850 years of Newcastle-under-Lyme gaining its royal charter.

The group have been taking part in projects at the New Vic for over 20 years and typically showcase annual performances for family and friends.

After a three-year break and just five sessions coming back as a group the ensemble delivered a very entertaining and engaging show about the history of Newcastle-under-Lyme, featuring stories about local famous figures and landmarks. It even included a sing-along finale to the theme tune of Neighbours, co-written by Jackie Trent who was born in Newcastle-under-Lyme in 1940.

New Vic Borderlines Director Sue Moffat said: “We are delighted that after three long years Strathcross has returned to the New Vic. The consequences of Covid were clear to see when the group returned, however 5 sessions in and the laughter resumed, the brightness and wicked humour alongside it, and the years seem to have been rolled back. These sessions have reminded us of the power of drama and creativity and the also how much we have missed Strathcross. We are delighted that they are playing their part in celebrating 850 years of Newcastle-under-Lyme’s charter and will perform their own time travelling adventure as part of the borough’s Britain in Bloom celebrations too.”

Brendan Davies, Community Arts Practitioner, said: “I have missed the Strathcross group immensely during the time they have been away. We wanted to celebrate the fact that they were back in their once familiar stomping ground, so what better way than to create a performance celebrating 850 years of local history? We looked at various interesting events, people and places of Newcastle (including a research mission to the Brampton Museum) and performed a potted history of the area… using a time machine! We are so happy that we have our company of friends back and we are looking forward to potentially re-creating some parts of our show for the Britain in Bloom awards later this month.”

Photo Gallery

Credit Jenny Harper

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