15th January 2025
Hull Maritime and The Northern Academy of Performing Arts (NAPA) have joined forces to bring the rich and fascinating history of the South Blockhouse to life through a series of immersive theatre performances, called “When Cannons Were Roaring: The Story of Hull’s South Blockhouse”.
The project, set to take place in March 2025, will feature performances from NAPA’s diverse groups, including the VIPs (Visually Impaired Performers), the over-55s group, and other students from the academy.
Through drama, music, and dance, NAPA will weave together a compelling narrative that explores key moments in the history of the South Blockhouse, a historically significant site in Hull.
The performances will invite audiences to experience the story firsthand, with a special focus on the archaeological discoveries made in 2022, the South Blockhouse’s role during King Henry VIII’s reign, its use as a prison for recusant Catholics, and Hull’s stand against King Charles I’s attempted entry to the city. The show will also highlight Hull’s historical involvement in the whaling industry.
The immersive performances will take place across five different dates and venues, with free entry for all:
- Friday 14 March – Hymers College at 2pm
- Wednesday 19 March – Hull Minster, Trinity Square at 1pm
- Saturday 22 March – Victoria Dock Village Hall, at 2pm
- Thursday 27 March – NAPA, 50 Anlaby Road, Hull HU1 2PD, at 2pm – BSL performance
- Friday 28 March – NAPA, 2pm
- Friday 28 March – NAPA, 7pm
The performance is recommended for people aged 11 and above.
Councillor Rob Pritchard, Portfolio Holder for Culture and Leisure, said: “Through drama, music and dance we will bring the story of the South Blockhouse to life as only live theatre can do.
“We are delighted to be working with NAPA, a local performing arts academy, so that people from all backgrounds, including those who may not traditionally attend theatre productions, can experience this important historical narrative.”
Carl Wheatley, NAPA’s Chief Executive, said: “We are thrilled to work with Hull Maritime on this exciting project. Through immersive performances, we’ll bring the history of the South Blockhouse to life, engaging the audience in a truly unique way. Our performances will not only educate but allow the public to experience history through live theatre, with the added benefit of Q&A sessions and access to informative handouts.
“By partnering with schools, local groups, and communities including those with visual and hearing impairments, we aim to reach a wide and diverse audience.”
The project prioritises accessibility, with specific efforts to ensure that all members of the community can fully engage with the performances. Performers from NAPA’s Visually Impaired Performers group, as well as the over-55s group, will bring diverse perspectives to the stage.
Before each performance, a Touch Tour will be offered to visually impaired attendees, allowing them to interact with the set, costumes, and props used in the production. For audiences with hearing impairments, a British Sign Language (BSL) interpreter will be on stage on Thursday 27 March at NAPA.
After each show, a Q&A session will provide an opportunity for audiences to engage with the performers and gain further insight into the project. Guests will also be provided with a handbook featuring information and images. For visually impaired people tactile maps, and Braille and large print copies will be available to ensure everyone can access key details about the South Blockhouse's fascinating history.
For more information on the performances and to book free tickets, visit here. For more information email here.
