Published on Tuesday 08 August 2023
SALT, a ‘landmark’ Poole community production conceived and directed by Angel Exit Theatre, produced by Lighthouse and performed by more than 100 local residents, has proved a massive success.
Set between 1681 and the present day, SALT tells the story of hundreds of brave people from Poole who decided to journey across hostile seas to Newfoundland, hoping to make a new life for themselves.
The production was enabled through funding awarded to Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council from Historic England, as well as grants from Heritage Lottery Fund, Talbot Village Trust, Poole BID, Activate Performing Arts and Arts University Bournemouth.
The production relied on a passion for acting shared throughout the community. Many volunteers had no prior acting experience, and participant ages ranged from eight to 86.
"Being involved with SALT was such an incredible opportunity" said volunteer Jenny Fawcett-Gray, "to be able to create such a wonderful production alongside people from your local area is unique. I am really proud to come from Poole and to have been a part of such an exceptional community effort."
Unlike a traditional staged theatre show, where audience members would typically be seated, SALT took the form of a promenade performance, with the production happening around audience members who were stood on the main floor and closely surrounded by the action.
This style of show helps the audience better engage with the story and with the actors performing, who are often within touching distance.
Feedback gathered after the performances suggests this type of production was well received, with over three-quarters saying they enjoyed the style of show.
The survey also highlighted that 57 per cent had a greater sense of pride for their local area and 65 per cent felt more positive about Poole as a place to experience culture and arts.
Reflecting on the production, Elspeth McBain, Chief Executive Officer at Lighthouse, said:
"SALT was a unique production in both concept and style, and one which Lighthouse was very proud to showcase.
"I have worked in and around theatre for many years, but this project has helped to remind me of what is possible when a group of passionate people come together, regardless of perceived skill or experience, and work as one."
Five performances took place at Lighthouse, Poole, from Thursday 27 – Sunday 30 September, including one which was BSL signed. Three of the evenings were sell-outs, with the other two heavily attended.
The production initially gained momentum as a product of BCP Council’s Heritage Action Zone (HAZ) project, which launched in Poole in 2020.
The HAZ project has helped to make Poole’s town centre more attractive for residents, businesses and visitors, with one of its objectives being to improve community unity – evidenced through the production of SALT.
The £1.25 million government backed improvement plan has also supported various conservation-led regeneration projects that are helping to reshape and repurpose Poole’s High Street. Drawing on its rich history and culture, it aims to improve economic performance in the region.
Shanie Hagan, Project Officer at Historic England, said:
"It was a pleasure to be able to contribute to a production like SALT and see our investment bring joy to people in Poole.
"The HAZ project is now in its final year, delivering tangible improvements to the area and we look forward to sharing the results."
Councillor Vikki Slade, Leader of BCP Council and Portfolio Holder for Dynamic Places, continued:
"I was fortunate enough to attend the Friday evening performance of SALT and I was genuinely moved by the quality of the acting, playwriting and production.
"I am proud to be raising my family in Poole and am all too aware of the area’s incredible value, history and potential. The SALT production goes to show what is achievable when talented local people come together and engage with their area and local businesses to work toward a common goal.
"This production is also evidence of the profound successes of the HAZ project, which continues to help unite the community, revitalise the high street and attract businesses to the region. It will be exciting to see what else Poole and its community achieve in the future."
Further to the production’s success, Poole Museum used Lighthouse gallery to display artefacts with a Newfoundland connection, attracting many visitors who were interested in the area’s roots and rich history.
You can also pick up a free Discovery Trail leaflet from several locations around Poole, including Poole Library. The flyer contains more interesting and insightful information about the town’s historical links with Newfoundland.
Editor’s Notes:
All imagery courtesy of Jayne Jackson Photography.
ITV coverage of SALT: New play in Poole brings audience, actors and the local community together | ITV News Meridian
Read more about the HAZ project: Poole High Street Heritage Action Zone (bcpcouncil.gov.uk)