A FREE outside theatre performance will take place at Thatto Heath library this month, as part of an award-winning arts project.

Taking place on Thursday, August 12, 'Estimated Waiting Time' will be performed as part of the library service’s Cultural Hubs: Arts in Libraries programme, exploring our need for human connection and celebrates bonds formed in unlikely places.

Presented by Lauren Reed Productions, the performance will be the first live event organised by St Helens Council since the start of the pandemic.

Set in the playground outside Thatto Heath Library, two local residents meet by chance one evening, both looking for a place to escape their home lives.

Isolated and lonely, the pair find a commonality, forming an unlikely friendship through their shared frustration with family, the systems failing them, and a love of storytelling.

They go on to share their mutual difficulties, their dreams and aspirations, and the things that hold them back, helping each other see a positive future.

Encouraging residents to attend, Cllr Anthony Burns, cabinet member for wellbeing, culture and heritage, said: “I’m delighted to see the return of our fantastic Cultural Hubs: Arts in Libraries programme which has reached thousands of residents over the years, many of whom may not have had the opportunity to engage with the arts before.

“There’s always something really special about an outside theatre performance, and this show – the first live event since the start of the pandemic – is sure to be a great occasion.

“The arts industry has suffered massively over the past 18-months or so, but now that most Covid rules have been lifted – it’s important that we show our support to events like this more than ever which have been put together to go ahead as safe as possible.”

Estimated Waiting Time will be performed both at 4pm and 7pm and is suitable for audience members aged 13 and over.

The 7pm show will be British Sign Language interpreted.

Places for this show are free, but limited, so please book your tickets in advance, either by calling into Thatto Health Library, or by visiting www.culturalhubs.eventbrite.co.uk