York theatre company Hallmark Theatre are putting on a showcase of inspiring talent – in a night that celebrates our differences.
Co-founders Jojo Hall and Tom Allmark are both on the autistic spectrum, and say that although complicated and stressful at times, their journey growing up has been incredible. So after all this time – they are ready to give something back.
Hallmark’s Night of Celebrating Autism will be Theatre@41 on Friday 29 April at 7:30pm.
The night will be a performance showcase featuring drag acts, improv comedy, stand-up and music – in aid of raising money for the National Autistic Society.
It will be a “nice mix of everything that will make for a relaxing evening celebrating our differences.”
Hallmark Theatre are a new theatre company based in York that formed in January 2020.
Jojo and Tom both studied drama and theatre at York St. John University and the University of Lincoln and created the company soon after graduating.
Hallmark’s aim is to create theatre that is “fun, educational and accessible”.
Having formed Hallmark Theatre in January 2020, it was only a short time before lockdown hit.
It was “very much a challenge,” said Jojo.
During lockdown, they frequently used their Instagram page to share live online soirées for aspiring performers, storytelling, improv comedy and creative writing.
“Having to work online via livestreams was strange but in many ways we were glad it happened. It gave us a chance to keep thinking about where we want to go, and what our image is.
“Creating a company is a learning curve in itself, and we are really happy we had that extra time to figure out the right direction.”
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In the past year Hallmark Theatre have co-hosted the Yorkshire Day: Night of Arts at The Crescent with Forge Zine, where they performed improv comedy live for the first time. They also returned to perform at Forge Zine’s Valentine’s Day: Night of Arts.
So what’s next for Hallmark Theatre?
“We would love to adapt a play or write our own stuff,” said Jojo.
“We are also hoping to have a go at Edinburgh Fringe one day!”
Tickets for Hallmark’s Night of Celebrating Autism are £5 and are available via the Theatre@41 website. There will also be a donation box at the event.