The Switchover

Our cutting-edge Arts Council England funded theatre project, Theatre Exterior, returns to the festival with renowned Manchester theatre company, The Larks, who will be producing an exciting new commission – part game, part theatre – which will take place on the Metrolink network during the opening weekend of the festival:

Charlie lives a happy-go-lucky life in Chorlton. She always tries to do the right thing, but sometimes everyday life’s little challenges get in her way: she’s always oversleeping, getting distracted, missing the last tram... She really wants to do well at work but disaster just seems to follow her around. Anyone who keeps a close watchful eye on her only makes her more nervous; Charlie hates feeling like she’s being watched. This all comes to a head one day at the office when Charlie, having had a brilliant idea, has managed to mix up her notes with something she really doesn’t want her boss to see. 

Can Charlie take back control, and save her reputation? She needs your help…

Part-game, part-theatre, The Switchover invites you to help Charlie by taking to the Metrolink network to save the day.  Visiting a series of tram stops, you’ll meet some of Charlie’s friends – and perhaps some of her enemies – with whom you’ll have to work closely…

Suitable for all ages, The Switchover is a self-navigating play experience in, on and around the Metrolink network. Registration required - 75 mins (approx.). Suitable for all ages, for wheelchair users and audiences with buggies or prams. Children 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult.

The Larks blend the spectacle of theatre with the immediacy of play. They are fascinated by the use of game structures to tell stories, and are passionate about engaging with ‘the now’.  Led by Andrew Crofts and Tricia Coleman they have delivered a series of interactive playful projects since 2009 initiated by themselves, which have toured the UK and Europe, or by commissioners such as MOSI, Library Theatre Company and National Trust.

For those taking part in The Switchover, free Metrolink travel is included whilst playing the game between the specified stops, which are Firswood, West Didsbury, and Northern Moor.  Free travel is only available when you are wearing your event wristband, which will be given to you on arrival at Chorlton Metrolink stop. You must be in possession of a valid Metrolink ticket if you are travelling outside of the event times or to/from any other Metrolink stop.