Young theatre enthusiasts across West Cumbria are contributing to a coronavirus time capsule to record a week-by-week video capture of the pandemic through the eyes of teenagers.

Theatre Royal Youth and Kirkgate Youth Theatre are collaborating with London-based Company Three to provide teenagers with support, connection and a space to be creative.

Hundreds of groups in more than 16 countries are taking part.

Groups create new videos every week responding to different topics linked to the lockdown. These include home life, school, exercise and friendship.

Georgia Douglas-Brown, TRY youth leader said: “It’s great that our members can still work on a creative project during this lockdown as it gives them the opportunity to express themselves during this worrying time.”

Emily-Rose Lane, 14, from Seaton, said: “Taking part in the time capsule has been a really great experience. I have really enjoyed watching them when they’re all edited together and think of fun things to do with my own video. It’s such a good idea and I can’t wait to make more.”

Kirkgate Youth Theatre is also contributing to the historic capture. Youth theatre director Letitia Thornton said: “By the end of the lockdown, the group will have created a cumulative time capsule for anyone to watch – and for the participants to look back on and remember this extraordinary time.

“We are working to battle the impact of isolation and anxiety on teenagers’ mental health – and provide a space to express what the lockdown is like for them.

“It’s been a brilliant way for these young people to keep connected, and they continue to amaze me with their creativity!”

Participant Ashlin Evans, 17, said: “This type of drama gives me a way to keep going even if I can’t be with people.”