A CHESTER and Wrexham based community theatre company has launched a "Lockdown Season" as a way of keeping in touch during the ongoing coronavirus crisis.

With its doors having to remain closed due to the current Covid-19 restrictions, Tip Top Productions, resident company at the popular Forum Studio Theatre in Chester city centre, has put together a series of virtual events which they hope will enable members and supporters alike to come together during the lockdown.

The weekly events which will all take place via Zoom include an Open Mic Night on Tuesday June 2, performances of new monologues written and performed by local writers and actors on Tuesday, June 9, a quiz night on Tuesday, June 16 and a read through of the stage version of the classic BBC comedy "The Vicar of Dibley" which was staged by Tip Top in 2013.

All events commence at 7.30pm. Additional events in the pipeline include an "Audience with Swingler", featuring an insight in to how Tip Top Productions was formed in Wrexham back in 1989 and how the company has evolved over years. The event will be presented by the company's founder Peter Swingler OBE.

Speaking about the "Lockdown Season", Brian Fray, Chair of Tip Top Productions said: "With community right at the heart of what we do, it is challenging for us to be able to engage with our members, volunteers and audiences in these difficult times. The social team, led by Rhian Lyon and Phil Cross are doing a marvellous job and are continually thinking of new ideas. It's just wonderful to be able to put some smiles on faces again albeit in a different way to how we "normally" do it.

For information about the upcoming events which form part of Tip Top's "Lockdown Season" or to register for an event, email lockdown@tiptopproductions.co.uk