A MUCH-loved theatre will be live streaming a gripping and powerful production in a bid to safeguard its future.

The Harlequin Theatre, on Queen Street, will be celebrating 75 years in Northwich this year, but like many in the arts industry, it is struggling during this difficult period.

Coronavirus has meant that theatre doors have remained closed since mid-March, with no visitors coming in to enjoy performances, but money going out on rent and utility bills.

There are real fears that the theatre could go under, and rather than sitting back and watching this happen, members are doing what they can to bring theatre to the people.

The Harlequin will host a night of live streamed theatre on Saturday, July 25, after which members of the public can make a donation.

Urban Trendz, a touring theatre company based in Hartford, will be performing the one-woman true show of ‘Where Do Little Birds Go?’.

“After we closed our doors, online play readings progressed into performances from our actor’s homes,” said Laura Bason, lead actor and vice chairperson for Harlequin Theatre.

“The National Theatre often broadcasts live performances, so if bigger theatres can do it, why not us?

“With the production being one woman, it’s been easy to adhere to coronavirus guidelines as there is only four of us in the theatre.

“Even if we could have an audience in for this show, we could only realistically fill 25 per cent of seats, and when you take out the costs of the rights for the production, we are running at a loss.

“We just have to sit tight, keep an eye on things and think outside of the box, but we are doing everything we can to keep the theatre going.”

The show tells the true story of Lucy Fuller, whose real name is Lisa Prescott, who was kidnapped by the Kray twins and kept in a flat with escaped murderer Frank Mitchell.

Explaining how different it will feel performing without a physical audience, Laura added: “I expect it to be strange as there’s a buzz that you get in the theatre on show night from the exciting moment when the doors open.

“It's sad that a physical audience won’t be there, but it’s good that my family in the US and friends in Malta can see me on stage.

“At least this is a way to keep the arts alive and accessible during this time, and we are working hard to ensure this production is a success.”

The performance will be streamed live from the Harlequin Theatre on Saturday, July 25 from 7.30pm.

Those in virtual attendance for the free event will be able to donate to the theatre afterwards.

To receive the link to see the production, visit harlequinplayers.com and fill out the online form.