IRISH actor Niamh Cusack is among a host of names who have signed up for a project bringing poetry readings to the public while in lockdown.
The Dublin star reads Fairy Tale by Miroslav Holub in the Readings from the Rose series of videos which are being published by the Rose Theatre in Kingston on Thames on their website and also on YouTube.
The theatre explained the initiative as “a means of bringing joy and creativity into homes during these uncertain times”.
Adjoa Andoh, Angellica Bell, Arthur Darvill, Christopher Eccleston, Jane Asher and Paterson Joseph are among the many actors and creatives who have joined Cusack in filming themselves reading their favourite poems from their homes, while in lockdown.
These readings can be viewed by anyone free of charge on the Rose’s website and social media channels, the theatre explains, “in the hope that they will bring some light entertainment to audiences while theatres are dark”.
Christopher Haydon, Artistic Director at the Rose, said: “I’m delighted that we are able to launch Readings from the Rose. We have a wealth of talent lined up so that audiences can enjoy a daily dose of culture and I want to say a massive thank you to all those who have taken part so far. We will get through this and look forward to sharing even more diverse and stimulating work on the other side.”
Angellica Bell is also taking partThe first poem in the series, Spite of War by Angela Morgan, was read by television presenter and Rose Board member Angellica Bell.
Speaking about the project, she said: “I’ve been working with the Rose for about a year now and I love it. It’s an incredible venue with wonderfully dedicated staff.
“The Readings from The Rose initiative is simply beautiful.
“I feel passionately that everyone, no matter who they are, should have access to the arts. I hope that some of the wonderful words shared over the coming weeks serves to inspire creativity whilst we are all cooped up inside.”
Forthcoming readings will be released every day over the next few weeks and published on the Rose’s website and social media channels.
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