PRSC presents: the Bearpit Open Air Theatre
Situated in the Bearpit, the Bearpit Open Air Theatre boast a unique urban backdrop which makes it a stunning location for performances, concerts, exhibitions and other events. Its first performance, ‘Things we do not know’, took place on 7 June 2017.
The stage sits on top of a shipping container which raises it to street level. The height makes the Bearpit a perfect spot for an audience. The Bearpit Open Air Theatre can be used as an indoor workshop/exhibition space, a covered stage, political rallies, debates, gigs/concerts, film screenings and so on.
The Bearpit Open Air Theatre was only used as an event space a handful of times.
Shortly after the first theatre show in the Bearpit, the licence from the Bearpit Improvement Group and PRSC was revoked by Bristol City Council, making it impossible to operate the space, and host local artists and theatre.
Installing the Bearpit Open Air Theatre
During the spring of 2017, the PRSC crew has been hard at work in the Bearpit. Two shipping containers have been installed, a backstage built, a large stage on two levels on top. Below are some images of the progress.
Idea and origins of the Bearpit Open Air Theatre
The Open Air Theatre, or Urban Minack, idea is based on the original Minack Theatre in Cornwall, created by Rowena Cade, which is a unique theatre perched on the cliffs high above the Atlantic ocean. Every summer you will see events such as drama, musicals and opera, together with music, comedy and story-telling.
PRSC installed an ‘Urban Minack’ Open Air Theatre at the Bearpit in Stokes Croft, Bristol.
The main basic structure is in place and the build was completed in 2017. According to plan, we would be hosting theatre, music, workshops etc, together with a pop up gallery. We had commitments from local artists and theatre companies to put on events.
Shortly after the first theatre show in the Bearpit, the licence from the Bearpit Improvement Group and PRSC was revoked by Bristol City Council, making it impossible to operate the space, and host local artists and theatre.