Flash Company Arts

Tag: theatre

  • Flash Company Arts Founder Awarded British Empire Medal – and we are so proud!

    Flash Company Arts Founder Awarded British Empire Medal – and we are so proud!

    Flash Company Arts is proud to share that its founder, Rebecca Denniff, has been named in the King’s Birthday Honours List as a recipient of the British Empire Medal (BEM) for exceptional services to music education.

    This national honour recognises decades of work supporting young people and communities through creative music-making, performance, and inclusive, community-rooted arts practice. Based in Whitby, Flash Company Arts has become known for its commitment to reaching those often excluded from mainstream opportunities and for its nurturing, youth-led approach to arts engagement.

    The award also acknowledges the challenges overcome by Rebecca in bringing this work to life, including the social and structural barriers faced by many working-class and rurally based women.

    Reflecting on the award, she shared:

    “This kind of recognition is never something I imagined. It’s not something I’ve ever worked toward or expected. But when I saw that the award was specifically for music education, and for the work we do through Flash Company Arts, I felt I had to accept it – not for myself, but for everyone who’s been part of this journey.

    As a northern, working-class woman who has lived through domestic violence, and the isolation that comes with being a rurally based parent to children with disabilities, I know how often opportunities and recognition are out of reach for people like me. To have the work we’ve done in Whitby acknowledged in this way means more than I can easily put into words.

    This medal may have my name on it, it belongs to many. To the young people who’ve trusted us with their creativity. To the artists who’ve walked alongside us. To the communities who’ve welcomed and supported what we do. And to every individual who’s helped make space for our work to thrive.”

    Flash Company Arts continues to work at the heart of its community, championing inclusive, accessible, and creative opportunities for all. This recognition marks a powerful milestone in that journey.

  • Lobsterpot Theatre Takes on The Tempest – Youth-led, Whitby-made

    Lobsterpot Theatre Takes on The Tempest – Youth-led, Whitby-made

    Something magical is stirring at Flowergate Hall, and it is not just the sea breeze.

    Our youth-led theatre group, Lobsterpot Theatre, supported by Flash Company Arts, is taking on one of Shakespeare’s most powerful plays – The Tempest. But this will not be a traditional version. The young people of Lobsterpot Theatre have created their own abridged adaptation, shaped by their voices, choices and ideas.

    From the beginning, this project has been led by the group themselves – our amazing young people aged between 7 and 12. They have explored the original text, debated what to keep, and developed a version that speaks to them and their world. What is emerging is a fresh, energetic production filled with creativity, personality and bold reimaginings.

    Lobsterpot Theatre is not just about acting. It is about ownership, decision-making and learning by doing. Whether it is directing scenes, designing costumes, composing music or working backstage, the group are involved in every element of the production process.

    Why The Tempest?

    It is a perfect choice. With shipwrecks, storms, strange islands and themes of power, identity and freedom, The Tempestoffers huge scope for interpretation. The young company have taken these ideas and made them their own – drawing out meaning, humour and emotion in ways that feel urgent and relevant.

    They have worked incredibly hard over the past months, and rehearsals have been full of discovery, challenge and joy. Confidence is growing, skills are developing, and a strong sense of ownership runs through everything they do.

    Live at Flowergate Hall – Summer 2025

    This brand-new version of The Tempest will be performed in Summer 2025 at Flowergate Hall, right in the heart of Whitby. The production promises to be bold, inventive and full of surprises – a true celebration of youth creativity and collaborative theatre-making.

    Follow Flash Company Arts for updates, behind-the-scenes insights and ticket information as the performance approaches. This is The Tempest, reimagined by Whitby’s young artists – and it is one you will not want to miss.

  • Whitby Community Choir Shine at Fish & Ships Festival

    Whitby Community Choir Shine at Fish & Ships Festival

    On Saturday 17th May, the Whitby Community Choir brought something truly special to this year’s Fish & Ships Festival with a stunning pop-up performance at Dock End.

    Singing entirely a cappella, the choir stopped people in their tracks with their rich harmonies and warm presence. Their songs filled the air and lifted spirits, drawing a crowd who stayed, listened, and joined in the applause.

    The Whitby Community Choir performing a cappella at Dock End during the Fish & Ships Festival, dressed in white attire, with a historic ship and colorful flags in the background.

    A standout moment was The Lifeboat Song, written especially to mark the RNLI’s 200th anniversary. Deeply moving and perfectly placed, it paid tribute to the courage of lifeboat crews and Whitby’s strong ties to the sea. Their pop up performances were all met by a wave of heartfelt clapping.

    But it’s not just about the music. One choir member said, “Singing with the choir is the highlight of my week. It makes me feel proud to be a part of the group” That pride and sense of belonging came through in every note.

    Their performance was one part of a packed weekend that celebrated Whitby’s maritime heritage in true community style. Just across the way, the Flash Company Arts team held brilliant drop-in sessions where families helped make beautiful handmade bunting, which was proudly displayed around the Fish Craft Marquee — a vibrant splash of colour hanging proudly above the seafood demonstrations and smells of freshly cooked catch.

    From music and making to storytelling and sea shanties, Fish & Ships once again brought people together to celebrate the soul of the town — and the community that keeps it thriving.

    Whitby Community Choir is open to everyone — no auditions, no need to read music, just a love of singing and connection. They meet every Wednesday from 7:15 to 9:00pm at Flowergate Hall Community Arts Centre. The choir is led by local musician and community music specialist Rebecca Denniff, who brings warmth, creativity and a deep belief in the power of group singing.

    If you’re curious, you’re very welcome to come along — whether to join in or just listen. Find out more on their Facebook page: Whitby Community Choir.

    Whether performing at a festival or gathering midweek, this choir is a joyful reminder of what happens when voices come together.