Origins
The Causeway is a multi-cultural, multi-faith exploration of legacy and creativity based on the story of the Lindisfarne gospels and originally written as a commission for Damn Cheek Productions as the key element in a co-produced project in the Felling area of Gateshead. As with other Damn Cheek commissions, Tony worked closely with director and dramaturg Darren Cheek to create a script which could be used in a site specific, promenade production with space for community involvement and incorporated ideas and inspirations from a range of community members.
Themes
The themes of that project included the way in which the Lindisfarne Gospels represent the importance of the area to the development of British Christianity, the way in which they represent one man’s work, the impact and legacy of that work, the beauty created and the way in which we can all, as individuals, have a lasting impact, can create beauty and a legacy. The question of our own legacy is also raised, with the inevitable link to the environment.
In writing the script Tony had the benefit of a number of interviews with representatives of a range of faiths conducted by Karenza Passmore, director of the NE Religious Resource Centre. As a result, this story linked to, and based on, the creation of an iconic edition of the Christian gospels, and the travails of the monks of Lindisfarne, also encompasses insights and beliefs from other faith groups, and of secular philosophies. The experience of seeing these interviews, and especially of sitting in on many of them, was uplifting and inspiring, as well as informing the creative process.
The team – and the future
The team for the initial production included Darren Cheek as director, Chris de Wilde as designer, and a cast of Mahsa Bahary and Ian Crowe, with original music by Kate Adams and Andy Hudson. Shane Righton was trainee technical stage manager, art and visual installations were the work of a range of local primary schools and several local choirs participated in performances. More insight and full credits can be seen on https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wlbVlik3dSU
A feature of Tony’s community shows is their adaptability to different areas, different venues, and input from different community groups.
