Archive note: this page preserves the 2024 Southwark Playhouse Elephant production of Catastrophe Bay. The original announcement and production details are retained as part of the Clarissa’s Corner theatre archive.
The musical was announced as part of the National Youth Music Theatre (NYMT) 2024 summer season, which will debut at Southwark Playhouse Elephant, performed by the remarkable Young Company Members of NYMT 2024, who are 10 – 23 years old.
CATASTROPHE BAY is a brand-new folk musical by successful British writing duo Jim Barne and Kit Buchan (Two Strangers Carry a Cake across New York, Kiln Theatre/West End).
The musical will sweep audiences away on a tide to another time and place populated by exotic characters from around the world. With a backdrop of smugglers and wreckers, deep in the wilds of Cornwall lies the tiny fishing village of Newfrock, the inhabitants are a curious and mischievous gaggle of misfits – who abide by a strange patchwork of rituals and beliefs to protect the village’s secrets.
Newcomer
When newcomer Murdo Moxy – freelance crook and con artist – enters their midst with his roguish daughter in tow, it sets off a series of events for the townsfolk to grapple with. Inspired by a vast language of British and European folk songs, Catastrophe Bay is as rich and hearty as a night in a candlelit tavern, whilst storms rage outside.
As part of NYMT’s commitment to finding and developing exceptional New Musicals, every year the organisation offers young performers the chance to be involved in a brand-new musical. Alongside this, there is also an opportunity for the NYMT young company to be part of a workshop for another new musical development. These week-long projects are led by NYMT’s Creative Team alongside composers, lyricists, and book writers, and culminate in a performance to friends and family.
CATASTROPHE BAY will be directed by Alex Sumner Hughes, with choreography by Julia Cave, musical direction by Alex Bellamy, design by Stewart J. Charlesworth, lighting design by Beth Gupwell and sound design by Josh Robins.
CATASTROPHE BAY is written by Kit Buchan and composed by James Barne.
CATASTROPHE BAY will play the Southwark Playhouse Elephant, running from 15th – 17th August 2024, with tickets on sale now.
