Play about loneliness by Oxfordshire writer comes to Cornerstone

Posted on 28 Feb 2017

Stop Press

On April 6, Cornerstone hosts a one hour play about loneliness and the Samaritans written by Oxfordshire writer Gaye Poole.

Battersby Buildings has 75 flats and yet very few people know each other. There’s Beryl, 68, and recently widowed; Chelsea, a new mum at 18; and Simon a young man with learning disabilities. Laura, a Samaritan, also unbeknownst to them, lives in Flat 73 and on one fateful day, unbeknownst to her, she brings them all together. 

New Oxford based company Human Story Theatre launched Flat 73 at Oxford’s Old Fire Station in October 2016, followed by a week’s tour to other Oxfordshire venues. Back after demand they are now embarking on a three week spring tour. Flat 73 is a one hour play with music by Arne Richards of Oxford Concert Party, about loneliness and the Samaritans. Written by Human Story Theatre’s Gaye Poole. Directed by Kevin Tomlinson of KEPOW! Theatre. Cast: Human Story Theatre’s Amy Enticknap & Gaye Poole; Abi Hood and Kevin Tomlinson.

Each show has a 20 minute Q&A with an expert from the Samaritans and other organisations who offer support to lonely and isolated people and it is hoped volunteers will be recruited from each show.

Human Story Theatre have been supported by the Samaritans Oxford, Cheltenham and London, AMI., Archway Foundation, Tandem Befriending and Volunteer Link-Up. A photographic exhibition by Community Photographic artist, Judie Waldmann, on the theme of loneliness will also accompany the production.

There is also a two-hour workshop at 2pm on April 6 led by the cast members of Flat 73. The workshop will include music and drama, and will explore the theme of combatting loneliness and isolation and building connections.

No acting experience necessary. Workshop will include a short tea break.

Farrell Curran, Arts Partnership Manager, Age UK Oxfordshire says: “I am keen to support this project and the high quality artists that are developing this work in Oxford.  More needs to be done to raise these important issues and a tour such as this is a very welcomed approach in the county.”