Giant inflatable theatre to stage shows in Scunthorpe town centre this summer

A GIANT inflatable theatre will be set up in Scunthorpe town centre for two days of performances and projects this summer.

The unique auditorium will be set up by professional orchestra Sinfonia Viva as part of their Cabinet of Curiosities tour.

It will be in Scunthorpe’s Church Square on Monday, June 19 and Tuesday, June 20 for a series of educational and community creative projects and performances to celebrate the orchestra’s 35th anniversary year.

On the first day, the orchestra will work with local school groups, who will be able to meet the players and try out some of the musical instruments themselves.

The orchestra will then stage a public performance in the evening, giving the audience a chance to enjoy high-quality classical music in the 195-square-metre venue.

The second day will then see the venue handed over to North Lincolnshire Council and its partners for a celebration of the region’s talent.

The council will work with John Leggott College, North Lindsey College and the Humber UTC to present musical workshops for local schools, performances from community groups and a film festival.

A second evening performance will then be held, this time featuring local schools and groups.

Tickets for both evening performances will be available from Sinfonia Viva soon.

Over the two days, around the venue in Church Square, there will also be a marketplace event celebrating North Lincolnshire, with stalls and activities from the library service, the 20-21 Visual Arts Centre, North Lincolnshire Museum and the colleges, among others.

Sinfonia Viva chief executive Peter Helps said: “This project will enable us to bring high quality cultural activity to areas we wouldn’t normally be able to reach, whilst at the same time celebrating local talent and showcasing valuable local artistic output.

“As an organisation, we are committed to creating meaningful musical experiences through performance and participation.

“This tour ensures we can significantly increase opportunities for people to experience the vibrant spectacle and personal value of a tailored, high quality cultural offer and to create a skills legacy for the future.”

Councillor David Rose, cabinet member for children, families and learning at North Lincolnshire Council said:

“We are so excited to have Sinfonia Viva visiting us for two days of fun, educational activities and exceptional music.

“Events like this help to ignite a passion for music and the arts in our children and young people.

“North Lincolnshire is home to hundreds of dance troupes, artists, bands and musicians so this is also a fantastic opportunity to come together, showcase our own creative talents and inspire future generations.”

The Cabinet of Curiosities tour has been made possible by a £159,525 grant from Arts Council England’s Strategic Touring programme.

For more information on Sinfonia Viva and the Cabinet of Curiosities tour, see vivaorch.co.uk or search for Sinfonia Viva on Facebook and Twitter.