BRIDGETOWN, Barbados – In an increasingly digital world, a unique theatre company in Barbados is making waves by prioritizing real-world connection and community spirit. Leggo Theatre, spearheaded by Theatre Practitioner and Learned Cultural Academic Neil Waithe, is carving out a vital space for human interaction and authentic storytelling, offering a powerful antidote to social isolation.
Leggo Theatre envisions becoming Barbados’ essential resource for real-world connection in the digital age. Their motto, “Building Immortal Memories” (BIM), encapsulates their commitment to fostering genuine human connection through the transformative power of interactive performance. Rehearsals, currently held in the picturesque Fitts Village, offer a “sanctuary by the sea,” fostering creativity in a unique and inspiring setting.
Leggo Theatre offers a diverse range of activities, including interactive shows staged at coastal venues between November and April, community and corporate workshops designed to build real-world skills and combat social media fatigue, and digital content aimed at promoting real-life interaction. They also offer customised community experiences for events and organisations and have ambitious plans for international touring to share their community-building model.
What sets Leggo Theatre apart is its unwavering focus on genuine human connection, its commitment to combating social isolation, and its dedication to celebrating authentic Barbadian stories. Leggo Theatre’s presence is particularly significant in a cultural landscape that has recently seen the decline of theatre groups like Pampalam and Green Room Theatre.
The impact of Leggo Theatre is already being felt across Barbados. The company provides a much-needed alternative to digital interactions, fostering real-world connections and offering a safe space for creative expression and community engagement. By preserving and sharing authentic Barbadian stories, Leggo Theatre contributes to the island’s cultural identity and provides opportunities for individuals of all ages to connect and contribute to the vibrant cultural industries.
Beyond its cultural contributions, Leggo Theatre is also making a difference economically. By providing paid opportunities for performers (with a minimum compensation target of $250 per show), they advocate for fair compensation within the arts community, contributing to the “orange economy” and supporting local talent.
While Leggo Theatre has already achieved significant success, they face challenges such as limited venue spaces and the need for a secure, permanent performance space to facilitate coastal and touring expansion.
Leggo Theatre is actively seeking support from the local community and businesses to expand its reach and deepen its impact. They are calling for donations, participation in their workshops and performances, and strategic partnerships to help them build a more connected Barbados.
The appeal of Leggo Theatre lies in its authenticity, its ability to cultivate a strong sense of community, its dynamic and thought-provoking format, and its powerful emotional resonance. By celebrating local culture and offering tangible social benefits, Leggo Theatre provides unique, immersive, and enduringly memorable experiences for both participants and audiences.
Over the past five episodes and eight performances, Leggo Theatre has witnessed significant growth in community engagement, garnered interest for regional and international touring, and strategically developed diversified program offerings. The team’s passion, dedication, and innovative approach have positioned Leggo Theatre as a vital asset to Barbadian culture, entertainment, and well-being.
Looking ahead to 2025, Leggo Theatre plans to strategically assess its social enterprise model, strengthen its operations, and continue its collaborations. Securing additional venues across Barbados that mirror the welcoming environment of their incubator, Sage Bar and Stage, but with greater capacity, remains a key priority for significant growth and expanded cultural impact.
Leggo Theatre invites the community to join them in their mission to build a more connected Barbados, one sandcastle story at a time.
