Say it with flowers: Theatre calls for homemade creations

Hull Truck Theatre is inviting people to send in homemade flowers for display as it prepares for its summer reopening.

The theatre is working with up-and-coming Yorkshire-based theatre designer, Caitlin Mawhinney to bring the building back to life ahead of re-opening to audiences after a 15-month closure.

The artistic intervention, titled Setting The Stage, will go through several creative phases which will be visible through the windows of the building on Ferensway for audiences and passers-by to enjoy.

As part of this, individuals, schools, and community groups, are invited to contribute by crafting a flower from paper, card, or any other recyclable materials they easily find, or “upcycle” paper they already have, such as an outdated event poster or Hull Truck Theatre programme.

Contributors are encouraged to write messages, draw pictures or patterns, and use bright colours.

To reflect what is taking place behind the scenes in preparation for live performances, Setting The Stage will go through different phases – all visible from the outside - including “Rehearsals”, “The Half”, “Beginners”, and “Lights Up”.

The installation will include vibrant window displays using props and costumes from previous shows which will give a glimpse into theatre productions of years gone by…

The flower-themed community engagement element is intended to symbolise key themes of growth, togetherness, hope, community and well-being, the theatre said.

The completion of the installation will coincide with the re-opening of the theatre for its summer programme on Friday June 4. 

Caitlin Mawhinney, freelance theatre designer, said: “Setting The Stage is an artistic intervention that puts sustainability and the community at the forefront of the theatre’s resurrection.

“We are creating a narrative that will take the public on a journey of anticipation - from the backstage prep to the opening night, whilst allowing them to become part of the story through their floral contributions.

“It was really important to ensure that the project could be delivered as sustainably as possible and so the incorporation of recyclable flowers seemed like a natural fit. Flowers are a great indicator of growth, new beginnings and hope, and seemed like the perfect metaphor to incorporate into this project.”

She added: “It’s been a real pleasure to work with Hull Truck Theatre and their internal project team on this creative project. We’ve harnessed important skills from costume, lighting and communications to ensure that Hull Truck is back with a bang when the theatre re-opens in June.” 

Mark Babych, artistic director of Hull Truck Theatre, said: “We are thrilled to be working with Caitlin on this project. After a year that has been particularly difficult for freelancers working in the creative industry, it’s fantastic that we’re able to provide her with work.

“She’s worked seamlessly with our own internal project team who have been pivotal in the success of getting this off the ground.

“There’s a real buzz of excitement across the whole organisation about getting back into the theatre and producing live work, and this project only adds to our excitement.

“We’re going to be announcing our summer programme of work at the end of April and could not be more thrilled about the prospect of welcoming audiences back into our building in a mere matter of months.” 

To find out how to get involved, visit: https://www.hulltruck.co.uk/hull-truck-at-home/setting-the-stage/. Here you can watch the quick and simple “how to” guide to floral crafting or download step-by-step instructions.

Completed flowers can be dropped off at the theatre’s collection box outside the front entrance, or posted to: Hull Truck Theatre, 50 Ferensway, Hull, HU2 8LB. 

The final deadline for contributions is Thursday June 3.