Theatre by the Lake (TBTL) announces the launch of its inaugural CumbriaFest on Wed 18 September - Thu 31 October; a celebration of the exceptional stories created in and inspired by our remarkable county. The festival will showcase the talents of local theatre makers nurtured through the theatre's Artist Development Network, Cumbrian Creatives, which was established in 2020.

The festival will kick off with The Dreamtime Fellrunner by Julie Carter, a poetic exploration of Julie’s life as a fellrunner. Produced in association with TBTL, this evocative piece promises to take audiences on a deeply personal journey through the rugged landscapes of Cumbria. After its premiere in TBTL Studio, the show will embark on a tour to venues across Cumbria and beyond, bringing this uniquely Cumbrian story to a wider audience.

Adding to the festival’s excitement is the world premiere of TBTL's brand-new commission, Steel, written by local playwright, Lee Mattinson. Set in and inspired by Mattinson’s upbringing in Workington, Steel follows the adventures of two lads on a town-wide treasure hunt, searching for a contract that could change their lives. Be the first to witness this compelling story in the TBTL Studio before it embarks on a West Coast community tour.

In addition to these main productions, the festival features a series of one-night shows, workshops, and social events designed to bring people together and foster a sense of community. These events will provide valuable opportunities for local artists and audiences alike to shape the future of artist development at TBTL. The theatre will be donating £1 of every CumbriaFest ticket sold to supporting developing artists in Cumbria.

Artistic Director of Theatre by the Lake, Liz Stevenson, said: "From lakes and mountains to post-industrial towns, farming and nuclear power, there are so many stories to tell about Cumbria, and there is a huge appetite from artists and audiences to come together and share in the stories that relate to us and our experiences.

With a mix of plays, mixers and workshops, CumbriaFest connects audiences to the artists creating new plays and experiences right here on our doorstep, and every ticket sold contributes to supporting Cumbrian artists in the future."

Whether you are a local artist, a supporter of new writing, or simply a lover of great theatre, TBTL invites you to come and celebrate the creativity and talent that makes Cumbria such a special place this autumn.

To book, visit www.theatrebythelake.com or call 017687 74411. Book for every CumbriaFest event and get 20% off.