Claybody Theatre unveils first curated programme for The Dipping House
Stoke-on-Trent’s Claybody Theatre has announced the first curated programme of events for The Dipping House, marking a major milestone in the venue’s journey from a former industrial space into a new arts and community hub for the city.
The autumn/winter programme opens with Yorkshire theatre company Mikron, who bring their distinctive blend of theatre and live music to the venue with Top of the Wold (Sat 10 Oct, 2.30pm), a laugh out-loud new play, and Wensleydale Whey (Sat 10 Oct, 7pm), which takes audiences on a journey to the Yorkshire Dales to revive a lost recipe.
Stoke-on-Trent’s Penkhull Village Brass will transform the venue into a traditional German Bierkeller setting for Oktoberfest (Fri 16 and Sat 17 Oct, 7pm), while Midlands Choir of the Year 2022 Cor Bach Ensemble return to The Dipping House for an evening of uplifting song (Sat 7 Nov, 7.30pm).
(Image by Andrew Billington, graphic design by Rich Hand)
The season concludes with Claybody Theatre’s new adaptation of Sir Gawain & The Green Knight (Fri 4 – Sun 20 Dec), performed by a talented cast of actor-musicians (sponsored by KMF).
Conrad Nelson, Co-Artistic Director of Claybody Theatre, said: “We’ve come a very long way since taking on Shed 8R in 2023 – now known as The Dipping House and very much on the cultural map of Stoke-on Trent.
“This autumn, making steps towards a diverse, curated offer of visiting shows and events is very exciting for us.
Wensleydale Whey Mikron. Image by Robling Photography
“Mikron are a fantastic theatre company, bringing two new shows with catchy songs and a fresh story-telling style. Oktoberfest with Penkhull Village Brass will be a fun, informal evening of music and beer in traditional Bierkeller style, and the ever popular Cor Bach Ensemble are always a treat for us and for our audiences.
“Finally, we’re very excited to bring a new adaptation of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight to the stage. The Dipping House is such an atmospheric venue, we’re sure it will be perfect for a supernatural, medieval tale.”
On the decision to stage the Arthurian story, Deborah McAndrew, Co-Artistic Director of Claybody Theatre, said: “Sir Gawain is a great choice for Claybody as the anonymous poet who first penned the legend around 1380 was from this part of the country. It is written in the dialect of the North West Midlands / Cheshire, and places referenced are close by Lud’s Church in the Staffordshire Moorlands, is also known as the Green Chapel, and perfectly matches the description of the Green Chapel in the story.
“Also, this Arthurian story has adult themes, and is more suitable for adults and older children and teens, who are looking for something different to the many shows that are for younger children and families.
“We’re pleased to offer a seasonal show that is complementary to other brilliant productions in the area.”
The Dipping House. Image by Andrew Billington
The news comes shortly after Claybody Theatre was awarded £150,000 from Arts Council England’s Creative Foundations Fund. The funding will support essential improvements to The Dipping House, including new flooring, lighting, and flexible seating, with works taking place over the Summer.
The theatre company pledged a further £17,000 from their own capital development budget to support the works, ensuring the building remains accessible and sustainable.
Conrad said: “There’s still a lot to do, but our vision for The Dipping House as an Arts and Community venue with something for everyone is getting closer.
“It remains the home of Claybody Theatre, and we will continue to produce our own work here, but we want to welcome other companies and groups to The Dipping House in order to ensure that the venue is really serving everyone in the city.”
The success of the venue has been driven by a close partnership between Claybody Theatre, Stoke-on-Trent City Council, Arts Council England and the local community.
