Return to paradise

With some hiccups and last-minute cancellations, theatres are re-opening across the country.

Stories are being told, audiences are being inspired, communities are being enriched and actors, crew members and front of house teams are being employed.

Lesley Sharp, one of our finest stage and screen actors, is in the final stages of rehearsing for her starring role in Paradise, written by Kae Tempest – the versatile, vital voice whose words can light up poetry gigs, music festivals, novels or theatres – at the National Theatre when The Big Issue calls.

The Big Sssue: Now are preparations going for your return to the National