THE DREAMCATCHER

December is not usually the cruellest month – there are other candidates for this dishonour. But this year with the festive season upon us it is tempting to think that all things theatrical remain dark. But there is in Cambridge some light in the darkness. We will be  covering some of these local shows over the next weeks but first off the traps is ‘Dream Catcher’. This is a Christmas Show that has been adapted for a special needs audience (particularly those with autism). 

Catching the dream involves a colourful cast of big characters and engaging visuals which help to make the show appealing to the target audience.  It will also have some signing in it and some PECS symbols (picture exchange communication system) to make it accessible for the audience, as well as moments in the performance where people watching can engage on a sensory level.

In what sounds like a wonderfully tactile move, audiences will be given a list of props which they can prepare in advance of the show (e.g feather, flour, party props), and then the actors will direct the audience to moments where they can use their props at home. I must say this opens up a whole new touch-enabled direction for future theatre. Imagine watching Macbeth with a twiggy bit of Burnham Wood (‘get ready to shake it’) or ‘Waiting for Godot’ with pre-ordered bowler hats. It is a genuinely brilliant idea.

The concept for this show was dreamed up during Lockdown when the Director and Producer, Mhari Gallagher, was working with small groups of children with special needs and engaging them with theatrical elements over zoom (dressing up, telling stories in a visual way, singing songs).  The idea of the Story Thief stealing stories and messing them up because he doesn't want a happy ending was born during one of these workshops. The children also loved the concept of a Book Fairy telling a story, so the show organically grew from these seeds.

 The show which has been made possible by an Arts Council grant and tailored for a special needs audience, is suitable for everyone of any age and any ability who wants a bit of Christmas sparkle. I have my feather at the ready!

Dates: 4th, 11th, 12th, 14th, 19th December.

Family Shows:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/dream-catcher-evening-and-weekend-performances-tickets-125386324873

Schools and Groups:

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/dream-catcher-for-schools-and-groups-tickets-126313235287

To book, contact: production@castle.cambs.sch.uk  A link to watch the show for one household is £4.