A Sunderland community theatre is once again putting local people centre stage with its latest project that gives a Wearside twist to the beloved classic The Wind in the Willows.
Set along the banks of the River Wear, the ambitious project by Atlas theatre Company CIC celebrates local stories, landscapes, and the power of community connection through theatre experience that everyone can get involved with.
Willows on the Wear will feature script contributions from local people and performances by Sunderland primary schools, giving dozens of young people hands-on experience in theatre, alongside a large-scale community company production. It is supported by The Barbour Foundation, Hays Travel Foundation, Chloe & Liam Together Forever Trust and The June Rose Project.
The production and two primary school adaptations will be hosted this June and July by Monkwearmouth Academy in its new theatre space – a venue that aims to become a hub for creativity and arts in the city.
“This collaboration with Monkwearmouth Academy is an exciting opportunity for us at Atlas,” said Holly James, Artistic Director at Atlas. “It feels like a very natural partnership because we share a vision to bring young people, educators and the wider community together.”
Atlas was recently part of a UK-wide research project led by universities including Sunderland exploring the role of local theatres and communities. One key finding was the importance of accessible, flexible venues that support grassroots theatre – exactly the kind of space Monkwearmouth Academy offers.
“Their stunning new theatre is a real asset to the city and wider region, and their positive commitment to supporting community theatre is something we’re grateful to be part of and excited to celebrate moving forward,” Holly said.
Iain Buddle, Headteacher at Monkwearmouth Academy said: “We are thrilled to welcome Atlas Theatre Company to our new auditorium. We have invested over half a million pounds to ensure talent not only in our academy but the wider community gets a chance to shine. Sunderland deserves venues where local people can come together to celebrate the arts.”
Atlas Theatre Company CIC was founded in November 2024 by social entrepreneur Holly, alongside fellow directors Abigail Lloyd and Sarah Templeton, with a clear mission to make theatre accessible to everyone, regardless of age, background, or experience. Working with schools, community centres, and organisations across Sunderland and surrounding areas, Atlas promotes the many benefits of expressive and performing arts while helping to combat isolation.
Holly’s journey began while studying performing arts at the University of Sunderland, where she hosted drama sessions and workshops to help students express their creativity. She later established a successful theatre society that attracted participants from all walks of life – but without a formal structure, growth was limited.
With guidance from the North East BIC’s specialist social enterprise team, Holly transitioned Atlas into a Community Interest Company (CIC), unlocking new funding streams and securing its future.
Atlas continues to work closely with the BIC as it grows, with connections made through the BIC’s Connecting For Good social enterprise events leading to collaborations with local organisations, including partners involved in this project.
“We’re building on firm foundations laid with the support of the BIC’s social enterprise team. It’s great to feel part of a community that’s rooting for you,” Holly added.
Follow Atlas Theatre on Facebook or Instagram for ticket information and ways to get involved. For venue hire enquiries, contact Monkwearmouth Academy’s theatre team please email lindsay.teare@mwa.tynecoast.academy or call 0191 9172300.