MEMBERS of a community arts group are getting ready to launch their new canal-themed musical show this June.

The show, Bridging the Gap, will take place at the Ellesmere’s Canal Maintenance Yard on June 3 and 4, with performances at 2pm and 4pm on both days.

Mirjana Garland, the group’s chairman said that rehearsals had started for the free event.

She added: “Bridging the Gap is a free, family-friendly show with music, silliness and amazing props.

“It takes a light-hearted look at that point in history when people from all over the country scrambled to invest in canals.

“At one point Ellesmere was invaded by investors hoping to make massive profits.

“There wasn’t a bed left to be had in the town.”

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Rosemary Drake, a member of Fizzgigs, said Bridging the Gap follows last year’s Fizzgigs’ successful show about four canal boatwomen.

She added: “We entertained over 400 people across four performances.

“Inspiration came from a 3.5-metre female figure we had made.

“This year we have something else rather special as integral to the show which is also rather large.”

A chance visitor to the yard on Sunday, Laura Varr from Leigh-on-Sea, Essex added that what was seen at the rehearsal site was ‘wonderful'.

“I wish we were around the area in June to come to see the finished production – and what a perfect location,” she continued. “The backdrop of the historic boatyard makes it really special.”

Across the whole weekend there will be plenty going on, with the opportunity to try paddle-boarding, take a tour of the historic boatyard and see Shropshire flyboat Saturn, plus music and refreshments courtesy of the popular Pastry Box.

There is ample parking close by with disabled parking facilities in the yard itself.

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Kate Westgate, a member of Fizzgigs, said: “We are grateful for the support of the Media and Art Partnership which is working with Canal & River Trust to rejuvenate the historic maintenance yard.

“Their support has allowed us to commission a script from a talented local professional writer and we are looking forward to the whole thing coming together in the next few weeks.”

Details of all Fizzgigs activities can be found at www.fizzgigs.co.uk