By The Way Project – progress, future plans and dates

28 Mar 2024


At the first workshop on February 22nd we began to explore the possibilities for performance in the area of Leigh Common, particularly BytheWay Field with its bog and wood. Using pieces of research as our starting point, we considered sounds and images associated with the natural environment of the area. Stories of fairies and Jack o’Lantern stirred our imaginations and figures from the past began to take shape – the carters and drovers who gathered their animals there before market day, the soldiers in the pub and the travellers on the railway line which crossed the area.  The ideas flowed and we went away with plans to develop these in the coming months involving sound, music and performance.

Since then some members of the group have met with Hannah Bosence, Countryside Officer for Christchurch and East Dorset District Councils, at the site to discuss our ideas.  She was very encouraging and helpful and gave us the go-ahead.

Provisional dates for rehearsals/workshops:  All rehearsals will take place on the site unless the weather is too bad.  An alternative rehearsal space is to be confirmed.

You will find BytheWay Field at 244 Leigh Rd, Wimborne BH21 2BZ, signposted on the left as you drive out of Wimborne on the Leigh Road.  Meet in the car park.

Sunday April 2nd from 5.30 – 7 pm  Group meets on site with Adrian Newton (sound artist) and Tony Horitz (director) to explore, improvise and identify locations.

Rehearsals:

    • Thursday May 4th from 7.30 - 9 pm
  • Thursday May 18th from 7.30 - 9 pm
  • Thursday June 8th from 7.30 - 9 pm CANCELLED
  • Thursday June 15th from 7.30 - 9 pm
  • Thursday June 29th from 7.30 - 9 pm
  • Thursday July 13th from 7.30 - 9 pm
  • Thursday July 20th from 7.30 - 9 pm
After the summer holiday, further rehearsals will be arranged for September with a view to 5 performances in the autumn.  We will also be looking for volunteers to help in non-performing roles. WCT workshops are free for members.
  • WCT Subscription Rates:
  • £35:   Full rate
  • £20:  Concession for children, students, on benefits, retired