Hearts In A Row

During the season of King Lear, we were joined by community groups PYT Fairfield and Milk Crate Theatre who gained a valuable theatre experience and an insight into the wonderful world of Shakespeare.

Untitled design 24
BackBack

15.08.2024

Hearts In A Row is a giving program that allows us to make Shakespeare accessible to communities and school groups that may otherwise not be able to access live theatre. For some participants, seeing King Lear in The Neilson Nutshell was their first experience of live theatre. In 2023 Hearts In A Row enabled 201 community members to attend Macbeth, Rome and Juliet and Twelfth Night.

Along with the cast and company of King Lear, Stage Manager, Eva Tandy and cast member, James Thomassen met with participants to facilitate a Q&A session. They provided the following reflections.

The Q&A following the performance of King Lear was heartwarming, and clearly empowering for not only the Hearts In A Row members, but also the King Lear company.

To allow members of the community to be in direct conversation with practicing artists, and ask questions about their process and practice, was wonderful to witness.

The program allows those privileged enough to professionally practice their craft to be reminded of how far the reach of impact at Bell Shakespeare is back to community.

- Eva Tandy, King Lear Stage Manager

I had the immense privilege of being in the rehearsal room and also attending the Q&A for Hearts In A Row whilst being part of the cast for King Lear. As a performer growing up remotely, it warmed my heart seeing the opportunities these young people could gain because of the generosity of donors. They were engaged, excited, asking insightful and provoking questions.

It was a beautiful reminder of what an impact these programs can have; removing barriers of entry, or degrees of separation. It also made me think of how empowering it can be to bring people into the environments they want to be a part of and involving them into the rich tapestry of Bell Shakespeare.

I can’t imagine the confidence I would have today as a performer, had I the same access to such fantastic programs.

- James Thomasson, King Lear cast member

Untitled design 23
Untitled design 24
Untitled design 26
Untitled design 27
Untitled design 28

If you would like to support our Hearts In A Row or would like more information about, please contact Felipe Cely, Development and Events Manager via email at felipec@bellshakespeare.com.au or on (02) 8220 7513.

Up next