Twelve Miles From Nowhere - the latest show from Karen Simpson Productions (KSP) - has embnarked on a national tour that comes home to Cheshire this week.
Set on a remote northern farm, this moving and compelling new play explores the impact of an engaging young stranger on the lives of a vulnerable, isolated family.
The piece was created following research with young people growing up in rural Cheshire, and is produced in association with Action Transport Theatre and Cheshire Rural Touring Arts.
Since Michael and Emily’s mother left, it’s like time has stood still for them.
James is struggling to come to terms with it and see a way forward. The farm is dilapidated and going under.
Then Craig turns up with enough charisma and ambition to charm the birds from the trees. But is he really the answer to their dreams?
Merging the aspirations found in Steinbeck’s Of Mice And Men with the northern sharpness and humour of Barry Hines’ Kes, Twelve Miles From Nowhere explores the realities of life on the edge, set against a surprisingly gritty rural backdrop.
Twelve Miles From Nowhere is written by Sarah Calver, Doug Crossley, Kevin Dyer, Freddie Machin and Ben Worth.
It is directed by Andrew Breakwell, who has almost 40 years’ experience as a director, producer and dramaturg, and is an associate artist of Nottingham Playhouse, where he was previously director of roundabout and education.
Andrew also has strong family connections to rural Cheshire and the farming community.
Design is by Helen Stewart, with lighting design by Mark Dymock, and sound design by Harri Chambers. Fight direction is by Kevin McCurdy. The cast features: Ashleigh Cordery, Danny Childs, Barry Hall and Gary Hanks.
Established in 2012, KSP creates new British drama for audiences across the UK and beyond, bringing together experienced artistic teams to make high quality work for touring venues.
Its first production – The Incredible Doctor Guttmann, the story of how the Paralympics began - toured nationally to great acclaim during autumn 2012.
Action Transport Theatre aims to put new writing and young people at the heart of UK theatre.
It develops productions for traditional and non-traditional spaces, working with young people to create exceptional theatre.
Cheshire Rural Touring Arts is a network of villages who stage high quality events - covering a range of artforms - in the region’s village halls and community centres.
It also organises participatory arts activity for the local community.
Twelve Miles From Nowhere is supported by funding from Arts Council England and the National Lottery.
The show can be seen on Monday, November 11 at 1.30pm and Tuesday, November 12 at 7.30pm at Whitby Hall in Ellesmere Port.
