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the comrise theatre


The Roving Troupe

   So, we’ll go no more a roving
   So late into the night,
   Though the heart be still as loving,
   And the moon be still as bright…
      (George Gordon, Lord Byron)

A long time ago, in the dark days before interactive digitalised technology, groups of travelling players would roam the country putting on plays for whoever was interested in seeing them. Generally they would end up in the house of some rich lord or squire and space would be made for them to perform, with a backstage area provided for them to don their elaborate make-up and costumes. Then a wonderfully entertaining evening would be had by all, unless of course they were rubbish, in which case they would be pelted out of town with decaying root vegetables.

Now, in anticipation of the inevitable collapse of society which should be happening any time now, the Comrise Theatre is poised, set and ready to travel through modern London, where time is precious and the modern squire or lady generally can’t face dragging him or herself out to some cultural event after a hard days maintaining their fiefdom, especially in the winter. That is why we, the modern liberated serfs, have created The Roving Troupe, the Travelling Theatre Company that visits you!

A whole new way to enjoy the Theatre. The Roving Troupe will come to any event, be in a hall, office, drawing room or shed; wedding, event, Christmas party, private rave … and perform for you in your own chosen comfortable, relaxed surroundings. We provide the lights, music and costumes; all you have to provide is a darkened space!

The Roving Troupe is composed of 3 actors and a sound and lights guy, so plays are quick, snappy, and original. You’ll get to see our unique take on everything from Chaucer (rewritten, but staying very true to his unique and hilarious take on life) to Shakespeare, to Oscar Wilde, and more! Plays are generally around one hour long, although some last a bit longer. If there’s need for an interval, wine will be served courtesy of the Theatre (well actually we’ll serve it anyway!) The only further thing we can say is that we’re very good, so please don’t pelt us with vegetables! If you’re intrigued, email us for a full brochure, giving your name or company name, and address, and we’ll get back to you!

Children’s Workshops.

The Roving Troupe offers a series of workshops for schools, ranging from Kindergarten to key stage two. We also offer interactive performances for secondary schools, in which the plays can be discussed in relation to their historical and social context. And we conduct them in full costume!

Interesting questions that we deal with include character; for example, what would happen if a particular character were not present in a play? How would the play develop without them? Together with choice; how would the play develop if different choices were made by different characters? How would the play end? Can a comedy become a tragedy, and vice versa? A full prospectus will be available from January 2007. If you are interested, please email us and we’ll put you on our mailing list.



You can email Alex, Simon or Cal at any time with any questions or suggestions, and we’ll get back to you!
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comrise theatre group