A lively and interactive play about a blocked drain was the main event at the launch of Local Democracy Week in South Tyneside.
Who Runs This Place? from Solent Peoples Theatre told the tale of a man's quest to tackle the blocked drain on his property, which straddled two council boundaries.
It gave the packed audience at South Shields Town Hall - members of the public, local schools, Forum 50 and the Younger People's Parliament - an insight into the democratic process, how councils work, committee meetings and decision-making.
South Tyneside Mayor Councillor Tracey Dixon, who officially launched Local Democracy Week, said: "The play might not sound that interesting but it's actually a lot of fun and also gives its audience a very good idea of how councils work on a day-to-day basis.
"And we've got lots of other things going on today like a speed-dating game, democracy workshops and an opportunity to take on the role of a councillor. I know everyone is really going to enjoy themselves."
Local Democracy Week runs until this Friday, 19th October, and has the theme Take Part, Take Power.
Other activities taking place throughout the week include the Big Debate on Wednesday on What do you do in the evenings and how does it affect other people? This hopes to create better understanding between older and younger people in South Tyneside.
Also on Wednesday a student from Harton Technology College Daniel Allon will find out what it's like to be Mayor for a day when he accompanies the Mayor as she goes about her official duties.
And on Thursday, there is a special meeting of the council's Children and Young People Scrutiny Committee and the Borough-wide School Council for them to learn about each other's roles.
For more information about the events happening during Local Democracy Week, contact Ann Best on 424 7257.
Picture caption: South Tyneside Mayor Councillor Tracey Dixon with Solent Peoples Theatre members Brendan Burns, artistic director, and actors Craig Norman and Iain Dootson.
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