Back In 10 (2019 – Present)
Everybody has stories. How often do you get drawn into stories you’ve overheard in your local shop, cafe or hairdressers?
Back in 10 is an ongoing production that sees local spoken word artists, theatre-makers, spoken word artists and musicians draw inspiration from the everyday tales they collect in independent shops and businesses along the high streets of the Black Country. These stories are the stimulus for short performances staged in the places that inspire them, while business as usual goes on around them.
Back in 10 is a celebration of the diversity and independent spirit of our shops, high streets and town centres and the role they play in the identity of the places where we live. As our worlds became smaller during the pandemic, the local shop became a lifeline for many people – not just for groceries, but for connection and conversation. What do we stand to lose if we ‘pop to the shops’ less and buy online more?
Back in 10 was originally piloted in 2019 and we have big plans for its return in 2022!
2019 Pilot
The pilot production took place across 10 locations in West Bromwich and Wolverhampton and featured performances by artists Vimal Korpal, Jake Oldershaw, Bohdan Piasecki, Ricardo Santos Rocha, Lady Sanity and Amahra Spence. Set design by Abigail King. Directed by Frances Land & Steve Johnstone and Produced by Bobby Tiwana.
Supporters
Back in 10 2019 was made possible by the time and generosity of local businesses in West Bromwich and Wolverhampton. A big thanks to Kavitras Fashion, Tailor’s Alterations, Kafe B70, Bal’s Spa and Tropycal Spyce in West Brom and Home From Home, Zaks Hairdressing, Azra Fashion and Zuri Coffee in Wolverhampton.
Back in 10 was generously supported by: Arts Council England, The Edward Cadbury Trust, The Sir Barry Jackson Trust, Unity Theatre Trust, Sandwell MBC, West Bromwich Business Improvement District and Wolverhampton MBC.