ELLESMERE residents and visitors are in for a treat on the first weekend of June as Fizzgigs, the community's renowned arts group, puts the final touches on their eagerly anticipated show, 'Bridging the Gap'.

This free, family-friendly production will be held at Ellesmere's Canal Maintenance Yard, on Saturday, June 3 and Sunday, June 4, with performances scheduled at 2pm and 4pm each day.

Kate Westgate, a member of Fizzgigs, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to commission a script from a talented local writer for the show.

She said: “We are lucky to have a musical director who has composed songs especially for the show.

“There’s plenty of laughs along the way although the story which underpins the piece is historically true.”

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Mirjana Garland, chairman of Fizzgigs and the show's musical director, elaborated on the production's light-hearted approach to a significant moment in history when people from all over the country rushed to invest in canals.

She added: “It is a 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!’

The costumes and props used in the show have also garnered attention.

Rosemary Drake assured attendees that Fizzgigs' reputation for delivering exceptional visual elements would be upheld in this production.

She said: "People have come to expect that from Fizzgigs, and this show delivers."

In addition to 'Bridging the Gap', the entire weekend will be filled with an array of activities for all to enjoy.

Attendees will have the opportunity to try paddle-boarding, take guided tours of the historic boatyard, and admire the impressive Shropshire flyboat Saturn.

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Live music performances and refreshments courtesy of the popular Pastry Box will further enhance the festive atmosphere.

Ample parking is available in close proximity to the event, with dedicated disabled parking facilities located within the yard itself.

Kate expressed gratitude for the support received from the Media and Art Partnership, which is collaborating with the Canal & River Trust to revitalize the historic maintenance yard.