The Barn Theatre announces new interactive digital concert where you’re in control of the set list

Using a new innovative format, the Barn Theatre has announced a brand new digital musical theatre event, The Secret Society of Leading Ladies, whereby the viewer is in control of the set list.

Running from 22 February - 7 March, the event has been conceived and directed by Ryan Carter to invite audiences into a world where musical theatre characters can co-exist in the same space regardless of era or genre; focusing specifically on the archetypes of female musical character, ranging from princesses and dreamers to villains and divas.

During the concert, viewers will be presented with five 'Choose Your Player' screens, whereby you must make the decision on who to introduce next. With over 150 combinations to choose from, its an exciting prospect!

Each character is introduced with a short scene, before taking to the stage to perform a number. The concert closes with a finale that features all 14 characters, providing a chance to get a glimpse at all the characters involved.  

Casting for the concert includes: Jocasta Almgill (& Juliet, Rent), Lauren Byrne (Beautiful, Six), Kayla Carter (Rent), Aoife Clesham (Fiver), Allie Daniel (Rent), Abbi Hodgson (Six - NCL), Aisha Jawando (Tina the Musical), Claudia Kariuki (Priscilla Queen of The Desert, School of Rock), Natalie Kassanga (Dear Evan Hansen, Motown The Musical), Emma Kingston (The Last 5 Years, Zorro),  Kayleigh McKnight (Bend It Like Beckham, Les Miserables), Ellie Mitchell (Chicago, Wicked), Jarnéia Richard-Noel (Six) and Kelly Sweeney (Hair, Six).

Leo Munby will act as musical consultant for the event, with sound engineering by Harry Smith, editing by Ben Evans and videography by Jamie Scott-Smith.

Ryan Carter said: “Musical theatre concerts are such an awesome way to be able to curate dedicated content to specific audiences, Secret Society was born when I wanted to find a way to make that a truly custom experience. In developing this project, we’re allowing audiences to ‘choose their players’ and ultimately build their own show. 

”It’s a form of digital theatre that the musical theatre sector hasn’t seen before, which is something that 10 months into the pandemic is getting harder to achieve! It’s super ‘stagey’, fun and self-aware, but aesthetically really contemporary and cool. The cast are an incredible representation of the next generation of leading ladies. It’s quite a mould breaking and innovative project which is exactly what I joined the Barn to deliver. I can’t wait for audiences to get their hands on it! I will personally reward anyone that completes all 162 possible combinations!” 

Tickets range from £10-£15 and can be purchased here.