Marlowe Theatre to Present THE GARDEN OF ENGLAND, 9-12 April

THE GARDEN of England, The Marlowe Theatre's first community production, is next month.

The project involves more than 150 people, aged from seven to 70, and celebrates our county, examining its identity and culture in the 21st century by looking at its history, culture and agriculture.

There will be performances in The Marlowe Studio, promenade performances around the theatre, market stalls selling Kentish produce (including fruit, veg, cider and beer), a gypsy caravan, a new garden created by students and staff of Hadlow College, and an exhibition of work from Canterbury Christ Church University students. James Baxter, from local band High Tide, will be playing several newly-commissioned pieces.

The performances in The Marlowe Studio are of a new play called Heaven's Witness, performed by The Marlowe Ensemble and telling the story of two families: the Dempseys, who move to Kent in 2012 to escape a troubled past, and, in 1574, the Marlowes, with son Christopher growing up in the county and then moving away.

The Garden Of England Producer Katherine Igoe-Ewer said the project is creating a real buzz of excitement: "For the last two years, we have been working hard to build the participation programme at The Marlowe Theatre and we are now looking to share this work with the community through our own 'Garden Of England'.

"Participants have always enjoyed and learned a lot from their weekly sessions, but it's great to give them an opportunity like this - seeing them grow with the chance to create and to perform. I really am very proud of them."

The Garden Of England is at The Marlowe Theatre from Wednesday 9 to Saturday 12 April. Tickets are £7 (concessions available; booking fee applies) from the Box Office on 01227 787787, or marlowetheatre.com.

The Kobler Trust is proud to be supporting the work of The Marlowe Youth Theatre.