In 2022-23 Historic England commissioned several photographers to work with local communities to capture images representative of their local high streets. This formed part of the Picturing High Streets project. In Prescot, Tony Mallon was commissioned as photographer. This image is one from the second of two sets of images produced as part of the commission, in collaboration with members of the Prescot Church Hall Photography Club. Mallon wrote the following text to describe his work on the project: "In 2022, I invited people to set up a local photography group to reimagine the high street and create a contemporary portrait of the area. Placing the cameras in the hands of local residents, through my support, they have become the documenters of their own community, using a combination of street photography and portrait techniques to tell their story. The weekly photography club at Prescot Church Hall, gave local residents the opportunity to develop their photographic skills and contribute to documenting their ‘High Street’. The group consisted of amateur photographers with mixed abilities/skills and people with no prior experience, however they were interested in taking part. The weekly photography walks have revealed for many Prescot’s rich and hidden history. The participant’s have highlighted that the ‘High Street’ should still be the beating heart of our town centres and have been enthusiastic about capturing a slice of social history – photographing shoppers, shop/business owners and their staff and the buildings/spaces they frequent most days to shop and socialise.
I’m so proud by the quality of work that has been produced and how the participants have embraced capturing their town centre. This collaboration and co-produced work has shown how the ‘High Street’ has evolved yet still gives a sense of identity and pride. A place that was, still is and should be for future generations it’s beating heart." The following information was submitted with this image: "Jay is studying Drama at College and is pictured at the front of the Shakespeare North Playhouse where he is a Volunteer.
Shakespeare North opened its doors in 2022 and is home to the only timber built Cockpit-in-court theatre outside London. Built with 60 tonnes of English oak, there are no screws or nails but joinery techniques used in carpentry 400 years ago. Located in the Conservation area at the heart of the town centre it celebrates a unique late sixteenth century theatre patronage by the Earls of Derby of Knowsley Hall during Shakespeare’s lifetime, in particular Lord Strange. The location had originally been the site of Prescot’s Cockpit.
The modern, energy efficient building was entirely built during the pandemic with public funds and donations. Shakespeare North, a project of international significance is firmly embedded in the local community.
Performances, storytelling and exhibition learning is inspired by a recreated historic theatre which can transform into a contemporary space.
There is a fully accessible outdoor performance garden funded by the Ken Dodd Charitable Foundation, exhibition gallery, sixty seater studio, learning space and public piazza.
The theatre takes its place on the international stage alongside other Shakespearian theatres such as The Globe and Sam Wanamaker.
Shakespeare North was awarded Theatre Building of the Year in 2023." 'Picturing England's High Streets' commission by Open Eye Gallery, Historic England and Photoworks.
Part of a collaborative project by Tony Mallon and the Prescot Photography Group.
This is part of the Job: HEC01/128/01/04/02 Picturing High Streets Photographer Residencies - Tony Mallon: Prescot - Prescot Church Hall Photography Club; within the Volume: HEC01/128/01/04 Picturing High Streets Photographer Residencies - Tony Mallon: Prescot; within the Sub Series: HEC01/128/01 Picturing High Streets: Photographer Residencies; within the Series: HEC01/128 Picturing High Streets; within the Collection: HEC01 Historic England
© Carol Southward
Photographer: Southward, Carol
21st Century Theatre, People Posed
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