Students at Crewe UTC are collaborating with a national theatre company to design and build the stage set for a new show which debuts in Crewe this spring.

The Set Designer for Northern Soul Productions, Sascha Gilmore, visited Crewe UTC where she ran a workshop with a group of selected students, to discuss initial concepts and designs for the set and props needed for Mick Martin’s new show Keep On Keepin’ On’. 

The show will tour the UK from May this year starting in Crewe, and instead of theatres, the performances will make use of retail units on high streets. Crewe's performances are in an empty retail unit in The Market Shopping Centre. 

Real life design challenge

“It’s a fantastic opportunity for the students to work on a real-life project with established professionals in their industry” says Crewe UTC Principal Will Chitty. “An additional design challenge for our students to bear in mind is that the set has to be easily taken down, transported and reassembled, as the show moves from town to town, and adaptable enough to fit different sized venues!”

More about Keep On Keepin' On

"With its unforgettable music, sharp comedy, and big-hearted storytelling, Keep On Keepin’ On is a must-see for Northern Soul lovers and theatre fans alike. Whether you’re reliving your dance hall days or discovering the scene for the first time, this is your chance to experience the magic of Northern Soul in a way you’ve never seen before.
Don’t miss out—grab your tickets now and get ready for a night of top tunes, big laughs, and a whole lot of soul!"

Helping to revitalise the highstreet with theatre

Each site-specific location – a shop in Crewe, a working men’s club in Blackburn and a library in Blackpool –  will be set up as 'Eugene’s shop' with the audience seated in and around the bric-a-brac, and a shop counter that doubles as a DJ booth after the show. The set has been designed in collaboration with students from Crewe University Technical College, and the locations have been chosen as areas that have poor nighttime economy and high vacancy rates. 

The Market Shopping Centre, Unit 4-5, Crewe, Cheshire CW1 2NG

Tuesday 13th – Saturday 17th May 

Doors: 7pm
Start: 7.30pm
Duration: 120minutes (including interval)

Tickets: £16 (£12 concessions – under 18s and 65+)
www.keeponkeepinonplay.co.uk

Age Guidance: 14+
Warning: Contains flashing lights and amplified sound.