A COMMUNITY theatre in Bromyard is determined to keep the arts alive as it forges ahead with an ambitious project to bring pantomime to everyone during the coronavirus pandemic.

Talented artists within the media industry in Herefordshire have come together to create a unique piece of theatre in response to the national closure of theatres due to Covid-19 restrictions.

Not allowing the pandemic to put a halt to the performing arts, Rebecca Cook has produced, written, and directed #Panto_Demic! a 30-minute short film.

Knowing how difficult it has been for many within the creative arts industry, Rebecca set out to create a performance which would use and support media professionals while bringing the local community a slice of laughter and normality during a time of such uncertainty.

“This has been a devastating year for the creative arts,” she said.

“Theatres have been forced to close their doors, artists have been unable to work and pantomimes have been cancelled. Pantomime is a popular and traditional activity enjoyed annually by schools and families.

"It is a great way for children to engage, have fun and inspire their creativity.

“In this difficult time, we have never needed the arts more to inspire, entertain and bring the community together.”

#Panto_Demic! written by Rebecca Cook, follows seven devious panto villains as they join a ‘Zoom’ call to plot just how they can carry out their cunning schemes during this strange and uncertain time.

Rebecca was furloughed from her day job as an education officer and youth theatre teader at The Courtyard in Hereford in March.

“The arts are imperative to society as they inspire, develop and bring communities together,” she added.

“The arts are inclusive and accessible for everyone, no matter of age, background or ability.

“It enriches our lives every day which is why we need to protect it and ensure its survival.

“#Panto_demic! showcases the talent, determination and passion that Herefordshire has to offer - to lose our local artists would be devastating."

A self-created short film is a first for the almost thirty-year-old Tenbury Road theatre, which has been closed to the public since March.

This project is supporting media professionals following a difficult year for those in the creative arts industry. Photographers, film makers, music producers, as well as the theatres usual volunteers have been drafted in to produce this short film.

With limits on the number of people allowed into venues, hundreds of theatres across the country have remained closed.