Keswick's Theatre By The Lake has welcomed three new associate artists, playwright Lee Mattinson, designer Louie Whitemore and director and artistic facilitator Melina Barnett.
TBTL will support the trio as they explore areas of interest, develop their skills and inspire new creative projects – as well as working with the local community. Lee is an award-winning playwright, originally from Workington. His most recent play, Hares, was shortlisted for the Bruntwood Prize and he is currently under commission from Theatre by the Lake, Southpaw Dance, The Letter Room, Kielder Observatory and Elevator Productions. He said: “I grew up 20 miles away, in a town that felt a solar system away from the Lake District. I’m interested in developing ideas that bridge this divide, engage makers from all corners of the county and turn the volume up on all those unheard voices.”
Louie Whitemore is an Olivier Award-nominated theatre designer from Ullswater, Cumbria. She has designed several productions for TBTL in the past including Tom’s Midnight Garden, Single Spies, The Rise and Fall of Little Voice, Dear Uncle and Handbagged. She said: “It has been a tough few years for the arts but I know we are back to being more creative, more diverse and even more exciting than we were before. I can't wait to be a small part in helping the theatre realise its forthcoming plans, providing entertainment and enjoyment for the community and visitors alike.” Melina Barnett first engaged with TBTL while working with local communities on the production of Jacaranda last year. She said: "When I spent time in Cumbria I fell in love with the place. Getting to know the local community was a real honour so I couldn't have been more chuffed to be asked to be an associate artist."
The theatre's artistic director, Liz Stevenson, said: “Lee, Louie and Melina have already shared their ideas, support, and creativity over the last few years. We are acknowledging their value to the organisation to a longer involvement that will undoubtedly enrich the theatre."
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