Love On The Dole - 2004
Love on the Dole was a Salford community theatre project that lasted for a total of nine months.
The project began with an open invitation to the community to get involved in free workshops held by professional artists to learn theatre skills. Groups were involved in workshops for creating music, set and costume design, dance and acting and after six months, the new skills acquired by the local participants were brought together to create a spectacular, large-scale performance of Walter Greenwood’s Love on the Dole.
Over 120 people took part in the show, which had a ten-day run at The Lowry and played to sell-out audiences every night as well as one matinee performance.
Here’s what the press said about the production of Love on the Dole:
“The stars are local people drawn from all walks of life… it is touching, funny and full of authentic spirit… It all works wonderfully well – a real tribute to the community involvement.” Manchester Evening News
“The vision and commitment of those involved has paid off in bushels with a work that loses none of the author’s hard-hitting messages… yet at the same time adds upbeat wit with its scripting, songs and choreography. To describe this as a very professional or polished production wouldn’t do justice to the raw-edged charm or authenticity provided by a cast that has Northern ness coursing through its veins and whose members are drawn from all walks of life.”
Oldham Evening Chronicle
Here’s what some of the participants said about their involvement in Love on the Dole:
“A friend told me about the production so I decided to join in. I love theatre and this has been a really welcoming experience.”
Chris Nelson, age 15
“I wanted to gain experience and make new friends. My mum and grandma are in the show as well. It’s fun – wacky and exciting!”
Chloe Harrison, age 14
“I’m enjoying every minute and making new friends. One of those ‘once in a lifetime’ experiences.”
Denise Gardner, age 50
“I found about this in the Salford Advertiser. Living locally, this is a great opportunity.”
Peter Hughes, age 55
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