New production celebrates unity and freedom

GCT will showcase work by performers with learning disabilities and autism

- SAM WONFOR www.culturenortheast.co.uk

NORTH East theatre will mark 80 years since the end of the Second World War with its most ambitious production yet - a large-scale celebration of freedom, unity and inclusive national pride.

Gosforth Civic Theatre (GCT) is taking part in Future Arts Centres’ nationwide project, Our Freedom - Then & Now, joining 60 arts venues across the UK this month for what is billed as the largest collaborative performance of its kind.

Two performances will take place at the venue on Friday, serving as its annual platform showcasing new work by performers with learning disabilities and autism.

GCT - the only arts venue in the UK founded and guided by people with learning disabilities - will welcome matinee and evening audiences to a full-length production featuring more than 60 performers.