Performers across Stoke-on-Trent are being encouraged to audition for a unique role that would see them play a part in the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad through Imagineer Productions’ Godiva Awakes project.
Godiva Awakes is commissioned through Artists taking the lead, an exciting project forming part of the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad and funded by Arts Council England. Imagineer Productions will create a ten metre high Lady Godiva, who will awake from her sleeping chamber in July 2012 to a spectacular performance and powered by 50 cyclists journey to London to play a part in the London 2012 celebrations. She will be a symbol of justice for the 21st Century embodying the values of fair play, friendship, respect and courage that are at the heart of the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The Regent Theatre and Victoria Hall, are one of eleven artists groups from across the region working with Imagineer to recruit young dancers and performers, aged between 14 and 23 years, for the project. Between now and July 2012 the groups will work collectively in their own areas to explore the themes of equality, fairness and social justice in their community and in communities worldwide through theatre, carnival and dance. The groups will come together at regular intervals to share their findings and work toward the Godiva’s awakening in July 2012. The performance groups are referred to as the Communitas which is taken from the Latin noun referring to the intense community spirit, the feeling of great social equality, solidarity and togetherness.
Councillor Hazel Lyth, cabinet member for sport, leisure and culture, said: “To take part in the Olympic and Paralympic Games is a once in a lifetime opportunity. Lady Godiva is a famous symbol of our region of the country, and now the people of Stoke-on-Trent can add their own special magic to the performance to bring her to life on the international stage.”
Anyone wishing to take part can apply to join the free classes that commence on Tuesday September 14, between 4:30pm and 6:30pm. For more information contact Creative Learning Officer, Zoe Scott on 01782 211214.
Additionally local people aged 14 and over, will also have the opportunity to apply to become a member of the 100 strong cycling team which will power Godiva to London in 2012. Places for novice cyclists are still available.
Entries for a place can be made by completing a postcard telling Imagineer in 30 words why they should be part of the team. All applications need to be received by Friday September 17, 2010. Vanessa Darlington, Stoke-on-Trent Olympic Co-ordinator, can be telephoned on 01782 236156 or emailed Vanessa.darlington@stoke.gov.uk for a postcard or it can be downloaded from www.imagineerproductions.co.uk. 25 names will be drawn from the postcard entrants from across the Midlands.
Up to 66 places are also available for experienced enthusiasts, regular cyclists and members of cycling teams, including disability groups. Experienced cyclists should contact Imagineer Productions via info@imagineerproductions.co.uk providing name, contact details, why they want to join the team, where they are based and how often they cycle.
The cycle team will be announced in the autumn and will begin training together for the journey in 2012. For further information please visit: www.imagineerproductions.co.uk.