A group of Camden residents have created a new play that charts the history and impact of one of Swiss Cottage’s most beloved buildings. The Winch – A Place for Heroes, Daredevils and Lost Lovers will be performed at Hampstead Theatre on Wednesday 31 July.

Nine writers – all residents of Camden – have collaborated to create the play with the support of playwright Sonali Bhattacharyya. The play’s creation has taken place over several months through a series of collaborative sessions between the nine writers, participants from England’s Lane Hostel and Hampstead Theatre’s Community Acting Company. The performance will include community performers alongside actors from previous Hampstead Theatre productions.

The story of The Winch began over 50 years ago when a group of 13 local residents reclaimed and repurposed the derelict Winchester Arms pub on Winchester Road, NW3 transforming it into a community hub. The group repaired the building and established The Winch as a charity in 1973. Since then, the building has supported and welcomed thousands of children, young people and families.

Hampstead Theatre’s Participation Director Jennifer Davis who is directing the play said:

“Theatre making is such a powerful form of community building. Since 2021, we’ve invited local residents to participate in regular creative workshops, theatre trips and social opportunities as part of our Community Creates programme. Our aim was to create meaningful partnerships that brought people together just as The Winch has done for over 50 years. The Winch is such an extraordinary and inspirational place and our performance on 31 July is a true celebration of that.”

The performance celebrates the culmination of Hampstead Theatre’s Community Creates – a three-year community programme delivered in partnership with The Winch and funded by Camden Council.

 

The Winch – A Place for Heroes, Daredevils and Lost Lovers takes place on the Main Stage at Hampstead Theatre on Wednesday 31 July, 7.30pm.

  

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