The streets of Newbury became a stage for a captivating tale through life’s key moments with Watchful

On the evening of Saturday 25 July, acclaimed French outdoor theatre company Adhok transformed the streets of Newbury into a time capsule, taking a Watchful audience of several hundred people on a journey through a couple’s life.

The two lead actors invited audience members to walk alongside them as they travelled along Northbrook Street towards Newbury Market Place. With sets along the journey that ranged from a baby’s nursery to a house party, each humorous and thoughtful scene introduced a new perspective on time, and the questions we face throughout our lives.

Each scene was brought to life through creative costumes, with height and movement supported by a repurposed forklift truck, and props including confetti, fake snow and champagne for delighted audience members to enjoy. The use of the truck throughout added drama and excitement, with the performers towering over the audience, or spinning above them.

Critical to the success of the performance was the humorous dialogue, which allowed the performers to draw the audience into their world with a warm rapport. Through cheeky interactions with audience members, and witty remarks on life’s challenges, the performance became an immersive experience where audience members felt a part of the characters’ lives.

The concluding scene brought the journey to life even more, with music, party decorations and dancing, in a vibrant celebration of life, joy and the people that are by our sides through it all.

The evening was presented free as part of the Corn Exchange Newbury Trust’s outdoor programme, supported by Arts Council England and Greenham Trust, which continues to bring innovative and accessible performances into the heart of the town to ensure that arts and culture remain open and welcoming to all.

Audiences can look forward to another engaging performance on Saturday 5 September, as Rara Woulib presents Deblozay, transforming the town into a powerful, musical celebration of Haitian culture, beginning at 8pm at the Boating Lake in Victoria Park and moving through the streets of Newbury. Find out more here.