School children in Sunderland were among the first guests to experience a new immersive dance production.
Pupils from Sunderland were treated to the debut performance of HOME, a community show created by Southpaw Company to celebrate the opening of the new Culture House.
The performance featured live dance, immersive visuals and storytelling, with professional dancers performing alongside community members throughout the multi-purpose venue.
Kate Stebbing, an English teacher at St Anthony’s Girls’ Catholic Academy, said: "The production was fantastic, with wonderful, stand-out performances.
"For many students, the arts give them an opportunity to shine.
"They can express themselves and be inspired, so watching a show like HOME, and having the Culture House here in Sunderland, was very empowering.
"We can raise aspirations while giving children a sense of belonging."
The story followed Lyra, a young woman born in Sunderland who becomes an astronaut, inspired by her late father’s encouragement to "look up" and reach for the stars.
Performers danced throughout the building, including in different rooms, windows and along the spiral staircase.
The project is being funded by the UK Government as part of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund with thanks to the North East Mayoral Strategic Authority.
It also featured members of the public who take part in Southpaw’s AMPLIFY community performance programme.
Elaine Ferguson, 74, a regular participant, said: "It’s been great being a part of the performance.
"It’s always challenging but that’s a good thing.
"I love the fun of it and the camaraderie with the other performers.
"We’re all friends together and we look after each other."
Kira Atkinson, 21, another performer, said: "Being part of the production is an amazing opportunity and after performing it with everyone I was left with such a buzz.
"I loved it."
Mickey Odonnell, 34, said: "I thought the performance went really well.
"I really enjoyed the sharp, dynamic style of the choreography and the exciting energy that built throughout the piece, particularly in the finale."
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The show was also performed for the public over the weekend of September 26 and 27 as part of Culture House’s official opening celebrations.
Robby Graham, artistic director of Southpaw, said: "HOME was a beautiful way to celebrate the opening of such a wonderful building and we were very excited that we were chosen to be such a key part of the celebrations."
Leanne Littlewood, director of Culture House, said: "HOME is a spectacular event and we couldn’t think of a better way to mark the opening of Culture House."
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