Performing Arts and Social Change organisation working for and with communities in North Somerset.

The Theatre Orchard believes that the Arts are the most effective way to bring the communities of North Somerset together. We want residents to enjoy a greater sense of wellbeing through developing a full creative life. We nurture and support theatre, dance, music, storytelling and film projects, particularly in isolated or disadvantaged communities, so that more people may find their voice through the arts.

Why the community needs this charity

North Somerset has high levels of localised deprivation and a huge range of inequality. Many people in need of the enrichment that creativity offers have little access to professional arts. Our work lays foundations for self-sustaining professional arts activity in the area. We partner professional arts organisations to develop rural touring, workshop and performance opportunities for all residents. This benefits communities by encouraging their ability to be imaginative, healthy and resilient.

Results and outcomes

In 2013-14 We are touring 5 professional shows to 16 rural venues to audiences of over 1000 people; we have enabled 30 adults, 20 children and 10 families living on the Bournville estate WSM to establish their own community theatre and make two community films with professional support and training; If we can reach our target we will be able to partner more professional organisations to create more diverse and meaningful creative activity on the doorsteps of North Somerset.

Latest activities and projects

Forever In Your Debt

A hard-hitting community film with Bournville Community Theatre Company and the wider Bournville community highlighting the dangers of loan sharking and high interest loans. The film will be widely distributed throughout North Somerset housing association estates. read more

In Cider Story

In Cider Story: a ballad of two brothers brings live performance to "theatre-parched" rural communities in North Somerset using pubs as performance spaces. Brewed especially for North Somerset pubs, In Cider Story is an original mix of live music and jaw dropping verse - that more or less rhymes, for better or worse. Starring 'the adorable Howard Coggins' (Independent) and 'standout Stuart McLoughlin' (What's on Stage), both actors rolling in from a five star run of Peter Pan at Bristol Old Vic read more