City in the Community’s (CITC) walking football programme swapped the beautiful game to tread the boards at the City Football Academy last week.

Singing rather than goal scoring was the focus as the 12 participants took part in a theatre session led by Manchester International Festival and Frantic Assembly.

The group, which launched in 2014, were introduced to theatrical movement, including weight and lifting work and put their vocal skills to the test as they learnt and performed the harmonies of Goodnight Sweetheart and Sloop John B.

An opportunity to develop new skills, confidence and creativity away from the football pitch, participant, Barry George, appreciated the new experience.

“I really enjoyed the workshop from start to finish, although I found it very challenging, it was fun at the same time,” he said.

“It was nice to be part of a team, all working together to perform physical activities to build our confidence and trust in one another. 

“It is definitely something I would like to do again, and maybe it will become an additional hobby of mine.”

The performing will not end there for the walking football group, who have been invited to attend a further workshop at the Royal Exchange Theatre.

There, they will get the chance to join the Chorus of Others who will be performing in part of Manchester International Festival commission, Fatherland.

Fatherland, a show about contemporary fatherhood in all its complexities and contradictions, will be performed at the Royal Exchange Theatre between 1-22 July 2017.

City in the Community’s walking football programme meets twice a week at Sportcity, Gate 2, Manchester, M11 3FF, Manchester M11 3FF.

Tuesday: 11:45am – 1:00pm
Friday: 10:45am – 12:00pm

To find out more about City in the Community’s work, please visit: mancity.com/community.