Theatre shows to bring Blockhouse history to life
TUDOR HULL: An illustration of the South Blockhouse
By Simon Bristow, Co-Editor
A series of theatre performances will bring the rich and fascinating history of Hull’s South Blockhouse to life next month.
The nationally significant monument, built on the orders of Henry VIII, will be celebrated in a piece called When Cannons Were Roaring: The Story of Hull’s South Blockhouse.
The project, a collaboration between Hull Maritime and The Northern Academy of Performing Arts (NAPA), will feature performances from NAPA’s diverse groups, including the VIPs (Visually Impaired Performers), the over-55s, and other students from the academy.
Through drama, music, and dance, NAPA will weave together a compelling narrative that explores key moments in the history of the South Blockhouse.
The performances will invite audiences to experience the story first-hand, with a special focus on the archaeological discoveries made in 2022, the South Blockhouse’s role during Henry VIII’s reign, its use as a prison for recusant Catholics, and Hull’s stand against King Charles I’s attempted entry to the city. The show will also highlight Hull’s historical involvement in the whaling industry.
The immersive performances will take place across five different dates and venues, with free entry for all:
Friday, March 14 – Hymers College, 2pm
Wednesday, March 19 – Hull Minster, 1pm
Saturday, March 22 – Victoria Dock Village Hall, 2pm
Thursday, March 27 – NAPA, 50 Anlaby Road, at 2pm – BSL performance
Friday, March 28 – NAPA, 2pm & 7pm
The performance is recommended for people aged 11 and above.
Councillor Rob Pritchard, portfolio holder for culture and leisure at Hull City Council, said: “Through drama, music and dance we will bring the story of the South Blockhouse to life as only live theatre can do.
“We are delighted to be working with NAPA, a local performing arts academy, so that people from all backgrounds, including those who may not traditionally attend theatre productions, can experience this important historical narrative.”
Carl Wheatley, NAPA’s chief executive, said: “We are thrilled to work with Hull Maritime on this exciting project. Through immersive performances, we’ll bring the history of the South Blockhouse to life, engaging the audience in a truly unique way.
“Our performances will not only educate but allow the public to experience history through live theatre, with the added benefit of Q&A sessions and access to informative handouts.
“By partnering with schools, local groups, and communities including those with visual and hearing impairments, we aim to reach a wide and diverse audience.”
The project prioritises accessibility, with specific efforts to ensure all members of the community can fully engage with the performances.
Before each performance, a Touch Tour will be offered to visually impaired attendees, allowing them to interact with the set, costumes, and props used in the production. For audiences with hearing impairments, a British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter will be on stage on Thursday, March 27 at NAPA.
After each show, a Q&A session will provide an opportunity for audiences to engage with the performers and gain further insight into the project. Guests will also be provided with a handbook featuring information and images.
For visually impaired people, tactile maps, and Braille and large-print copies will be available to ensure everyone can access key details about the South Blockhouse's history.
You can book free tickets here