New National Theatre production to visit three local secondary schools

Shut Up, I'm Dreaming cast

A new National Theatre production is visiting three secondary schools in the Rochdale borough this month.

‘Shut Up, I’m Dreaming’, created by physical ensemble theatre company The PappyShow will visit Edgar Wood Academy, Kingsway Park High School and Hollingworth Academy as part of its largest ever schools tour, visiting a different school every day for 11 weeks across 11 areas across England.

Shut Up, I’m Dreaming explores the hopes and dreams of young people in an uncertain world through an eclectic combination of movement, dance and music.

The production will visit the Rochdale schools from 16-27 January, as well as visiting schools in Wigan and Salford over the same time period.

Kane Husbands, director and founder of The PappyShow said: “This new production, Shut Up, I’m Dreaming is a bright, brave response to our time. The research alone has been an incredible journey and we have been so inspired by how this next generation – our future change makers and leaders – have responded to us.

“At a time where we feel creativity is being removed from the curriculum, we believe taking performance and theatre directly to young people can inspire and make us dream of more, see things differently and connect us to our feelings.

“I hope we can inspire young people across the country to walk into and lead BIG Lives and to keep dreaming... their whole life.”

Rufus Norris, Artistic Director of the National Theatre said: “As the National Theatre, it’s imperative that we are working truly nationally and creating opportunities for young people to take part in and watch live theatre across the country.

“Through our expanding Theatre Nation Partnerships network, we are working in close collaboration with theatres nationwide to develop deep and sustained relationships within their communities and with local schools to create lasting impacts.

“We are thrilled to work with The PappyShow to create a unique show with young people, directly for young people, and inspire the next generation of leaders and creators.”