There was more twirling than usual at 7th Culcheth Brownies on October 12, when Centenary Theatre Company arrived with a dance workshop. Frankly, it sounds considerably more entertaining than another evening spent arguing over craft materials.
The workshop was arranged as a thank you after the Brownie unit organised a group visit to see Nativity: The Musical. The theatre company taught the group the show's final number, Sparkle and Shine, giving the Brownies a proper taste of stage life.
One member of the Brownies will go a step further, taking to the stage with the theatre company during the Christmas production. That is a splendid opportunity, and precisely the sort of confidence-building experience that makes community theatre worth its glitter and hairspray.
Rebecca Mainwaring, the show's choreographer, led the session with enthusiasm. Cast member Georgia Heyes helped teach the routine, alongside junior cast members Jasmine Dunn and Georgia Dunn.
Dan Grimes, chair of Centenary Theatre Company, said: We had a great time joining the Brownies for the evening to answer their questions about the show and to teach them one of our dance routines.
He added: They made us feel very welcome and they certainly were quick learners. We can't wait to see them again when they come to see the show on stage.
Nativity: The Musical will be performed at The Brindley in Runcorn from November 14 to 18, with performances at 7.30pm each night. There will also be a Saturday matinee at 2pm, which will be BSL signed.
It is a cheerful bit of local collaboration, with Culcheth younger performers getting a memorable glimpse behind the scenes and Centenary Theatre Company gaining an enthusiastic audience for its festive production. A win for community spirit, even if the rest of us may now be expected to learn the choreography.
Article by Tom Bedworth, Community Reporter. The original article noted that it was produced through an exclusive subscriber partnership with USA Today and may not reflect the view of The Herald.