AN upcoming performance of what was previously feared to be the last ever show for a popular and award-wining performing arts group is showing next month.

CODYS Productions, a theatre group that covers Warrington but perform in Runcorn, announced earlier this year they had been severely impacted by Covid-19 and the cost of living crisis, and were facing closure.

Since then, the group rallied and created the #savecodys fundraising campaign, which has included an awards night fundraiser, selling CODYS branded merchandise and even seen the members completing a 12-hour danceathon - which raised around £2,000.

Whilst the group previously feared 'Footloose' would be their last show they are now already looking towards their next production. 

The play is a theatre adaptation of the 1980s classic starring Kevin Bacon, and will be running from September 7 to September 9 at the Brindley theatre.

CODYS has been running for nearly 30 years and led to several performers from the area going on to work professionally within the industry.

Alumni includes Laura Harrison, who performs in Wicked on the West End, Phoebe Williams who has appeared in Les Miserables, and Joe Maxwell who has gone on to appear in Coronation Street.

As well as this, ex members have also featured in Evita!, Jersey Boys, Book of Mormon, and The Rocky Horror Show.

Despite this, the aforementioned effects of both Covid-19 and the cost-of-living crisis left CODYS having needed to close their rehearsal space and facing a decline in membership and finances.

Nick Cupit, 52, the Chairman of CODYS, spoke earlier this year of how “CODYS are determined to rise to the challenge and continue its legacy of producing first-class shows after almost 30 years.

“The management committee and members, however, are facing the stark reality that this could well be their final performance without support from the general public.

“Despite everything, one thing is for certain, CODYS to keep cutting loose and performing on that stage. All we need is a little support.”

Though CODYS has recovered a great deal due to the members rallying to raise money, however still are hoping to get as many people down to watch Footloose as they can.

Tickets available at the Brindley box office on 0151 907 8360 or online at https://tickets.thebrindley.org.uk/.../footloose!/events