ACT
The Avenue Community Theatre ‘ACT’ is a group for adults with disabilities, learning difficulties and adults struggling with mental health and addiction. ACT come together in weekly drama workshops to create thought provoking theatre and film that challenges the way society views vulnerable adults and those who are different.
ACT recently performed their new original show MOW-TOWN. This unique piece combined choreography and script created by the participants of the group to explore the history of Ransomes Lawnmowers and the impact this invention had on the world. Mow-Town was part of the Our Town project, funded by Suffolk County Council.
ACT meet weekly on Tuesday afternoons. If you are interested in joining and want to find out more, email rei@redrosechain.com
PREVIOUS PROJECTS
Mow-Town
The history of Ransomes Lawnmowers
In 202e, ACT performed their latest project, Mow-Town, about the invention of the lawnmower by Ransomes in Ipswich. This piece used original script and choreography created by the participants. This work was part of our larger ‘Our Town’ community project funded by Suffolk County Council, exploring the history of Ipswich.
“It’s a collaborative team work between all the ACT members. We did a fantastic show!” –Member of ACT
The Boy Who Built A Flying Boat
An Anglo Saxon play
In 2024, ACT performed their latest project, The Boy Who Built A Flying Boat, exploring the childhood and adventures of Anglo Saxon mythological hero Wade the Wayfarer and his magic flying ship. This work was part of our larger ‘Wingelock’ community project funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, including plays by The Chainers Youth Theatres and the Gold Chainers.
“Thank you ACT for a top, top show. Loved the joy and energy of the cast. Great script.” –Audience Member
The Mistley Witch Watch
A play about the Suffolk Witch Trials
In 2023, ACT performed their latest project, The Mistley Witch Watch, exploring the society and beliefs in 17th Century Puritan Suffolk and the life of the self-proclaimed ‘Witch Finder General’ Matthew Hopkins. During lockdown in 2020, the group created scripts that explore themes of mental health, disabilities and persecution for being different in both the 17th and 21st century societies. This work was part of a community project funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, including plays by The Chainers Youth Theatre and residents at HMP Warren Hill.
“Wow! What a show! The fun and enthusiasm was infectious. I loved every minute. Thank you.” –Audience Member
PAULA
A new film created by ACT
In 2019, ACT were commissioned by Suffolk Adults Safeguarding Board to create their “thought provoking & intensely moving” play PAULA, exploring the mental health pressures facing vulnerable adults living independently. The play has now been made into a film funded by Leading Lives which premiered in February 2020. We hope this film raising awareness of the issues with the public, support workers and professionals.
