demi-paradise productions


	THE COMPANY

How We Work

The company rehearses on site in the evenings when the building ceases its daily role as crown court and tourist attraction. Run by necessity on a fringe or guaranteed profit share basis all contributors get small but assured fees and travel allowance generated by 100% box office revenue and sponsorship.

Our changing ensemble consists of northern based professionals (members of Equity) offered roles on a production by production basis. Performers commit to five weeks of rehearsals (unpaid but for travel) and four weeks of performances (paid with travel). Some 50 actors so far have enjoyed this invaluable opportunity to practice traditional craft skills through being showcased in our productions.

Each biennial Shakespeare production attracts a growing attendance by employers - casters, directors and producers - resulting in greater profile and enhanced work opportunities in all media. Given that an estimated 85% of Equity's 38,000 + members are unemployed at any one time this is an effective self help stratagem which can make a real difference to an individual's career and personal development.

Other Productions

Deck The Hall With Boughs of Holly, the company's celebration in words and music of Yuletide, in association with female acapella choir ‘Five In A Bar’, is an annual fixture at the Castle and Hoghton Tower, one of Lancashire's great stately homes, near Preston.

A fascinating interactive courtroom drama by Michael S. Bennett Richard III - On Trial For Murder was successfully premiered at Shire Hall in Spring 2007.

Both these productions are all seated entertainments, staged entirely within the Shire Hall itself, with a capacity of up to 120.

An evening of Ghostly Tales. Four contrasting classic ghost stories vividly brought to life by four actor/readers in the library, shire hall, cells and crown court proved a big hit with the public when premiered in September 2009 and will be back again in 2010.