A Show aimed at the body and mind is heading to the Midlands to lure in new audiences. Lorne Jackson reports.

Ravenous people very rarely make a headlong dash for their local theatre.

They only do so if it’s culture and creativity they hunger after.

If it’s merely a rumbling tummy, not a shuddering of the eternal soul, the nearest chippy will be the preferred destination.

However, for the next few weeks, Coventry’s Belgrade will provide both spiritual and nutritional sustenance.

For the second year running, the theatre is presenting A Play, A Pie And A Pint.

It’s offering audiences the chance to spend lunchtimes, or early evenings, watching a new play from one of the UK’s leading writers, along with a pie and a pint.

For those who prefer to steer clear of the hard stuff, soft drinks are available.

The idea originated in a Glasgow pub called Oran Mor, where lunchtime plays were performed in the basement, and food was provided.

Working with Oran Mor, touring company Paines Plough, have now brought the idea to Coventry.

George Perrin, one of the artistic directors with Paines Plough, will direct two of the plays.

He said: “When we talked to the Belgrade about the idea, they were very enthusiastic. The management thought that people who normally didn’t go to the theatre would be willing to try this out.

“That’s exactly what happened in Glasgow. The audience up north is made up of people who wouldn’t normally call themselves theatre lovers.

“But because food and drink were thrown in with the deal, they were willing to give it a go.

“So, last year we took the idea to Coventry for the first time, and we did very, very well.

“There was hugely positive feedback. Seventy nine per cent of the audience were first time visitors to the theatre. That’s four out of every five people.

“It was such a success they asked us to come back again.”

And that’s exactly what they’re doing, with three innovative new works.

The first play of the series is Dig, by award-winning writer Katie Douglas. It follows the story of Tommy, a proud and successful family man who is made redundant from his managerial position. His brother offers him work as a taxi driver, but he’s determined not to demean himself, even if it costs him everything.

This is followed by You Cannot Go Forward From Where You Are Right Now, a new play by David Watson which explores the impact of technology on communication and relationships.