A theatre company originally from Cumbria has received a second round of arts funding in order to develop a new show for 2024. 

The Moonlighters Collective, run by Cumbrians Hannah Roze-Lewis and Amy Allenby, is a female-led company that works across the UK, presenting innovative theatre that encourages discussion.

Their shows often explore feminist and political themes while covering taboo subjects and their new one-woman show will be no different. 

Ophelia, which will be set in the Lake District, aims to interweave Shakespeare, Cumbrian folklore and modern text to explore growing up as a young person with mental health issues in the region.

Producer Amy Allenby said: "We aim to tour ‘Ophelia’ next year so ensuring the show resonates with Cumbrian young people, and is accessible to them, is key to this project."

The new show is inspired by Hannah and Amy’s own experiences of growing up in Cumbria, and they hope this play provides a hopeful but thought-provoking insight into the experience of being a teenager in a rural community. 

Hannah has written and is performing the show, with Amy as the show’s creative producer. They will also be joined by Cumbrian designer Louie Whitemore, director Maya Shimmin, composer Patch Middleton, and lighting designer Ellen Butterworth-Evans. 

Throughout the research and development period, they are working with groups of teenagers from Cumbrian schools, youth theatres, and youth groups to progress the show as well as share and build theatrical skills.

They then plan to complete two weeks of design-based work at Theatre by the Lake, culminating in an industry showcase, which they hope will help them gain support for a future tour. 

Moonlighters Collective are also holding a free open workshop on Saturday, July 15 at the Carnegie Theatre, Workington, for 14-17 year-olds, which can be booked by emailing: themoonlighterstheatre@gmail.com