Knocking On, our theatre show that visited the doorsteps of Liverpool 8 has been nominated for the prestigious 2020 Achates Philanthropy Prize.

Co-created by Keith Saha and Brodie Arthur the show mostly visited young adults and older people who had been shielding over the Spring months.

What our audience thought

[We] Really loved it –  it brought some joy [to our lives]

 

Surita

[A] Delightful, bubbly character, [that] cheered me up [… a] brilliant performance from Brodie.

Jessica

Co-writer and Director Keith Saha says.

Knocking On was a project close to my heart and seemed to happen at a time when we thought live theatre was unimaginable, but then the moons aligned. Creating a story that had depth, that lived in the context of a lockdown whilst also offering hope and healing was a challenge but collaborating with Brodie Arthur who started in our Youth Theatre back in 2008 was a gift. It is really rewarding to be recognised by this nomination, and I just want to say a huge thanks to the whole team who worked really hard to make this happen.

 

Co-Writer and performer Brodie Arthur says:

I am absolutely thrilled that our work has been recognised and nominated for the award. I am extremely passionate about working in and supporting the area in which I grew up, so it’s always a pleasure performing for our residents. But, ‘Knocking On’ was a special project because it came about at a time when everything was uncertain and up in the air. It was much needed within this community. It’s been amazing seeing how communities have come together during such difficult times and I’m so glad we got the opportunity to make people smile. Even if it was only for ten minutes. It was also wonderful to be able to perform again after a lockdown of zoom interactions. It wasn’t quite a stage but the buzz was all the same.

About the Achates Prize

The first part of the selection process will see the Knocking On celebrated at a special regional showcase, where a 19-strong panel of judges will review and curate a National Showcase featuring eight cultural organisations – one from each region – to be announced at a special online ceremony presented in partnership with HOME on Thursday 12 November.

Achates Philanthropy Foundation Chair, Caroline McCormick, said:

“The 2020 Achates Philanthropy Prize shines a light into the role of the cultural sector at the darkest time for a generation. All of the nominations demonstrate how cultural organisations across the country have responded to the challenges of COVID-19, despite themselves being under threat. Our one-day conference – Art, Audiences, Money – will create a moment for us all to take breath and to consider the road forward from here, where our destination should be and what role culture can play in that journey. We can’t raise the voices of all the remarkable talent across the country and the work that is being done but are very proud that we can give a brief glimpse into what culture can do.”

 

Watch the Film