#CommunityTheatreMatters

2020 will go down in the history books as the year the world stood still and gasped in horror at two terrifying events. COVID 19 and the brutal killing of George Floyd, although his death brought the world together in protest during the pandemic and lockdown restrictions.

So how might these two events impact individuals from the Black community? As a race, dying in greater numbers from COVID and at the hands of those who should be protecting you. As adults, it is a humongous ask to see it as 'just the way things are'. So what do we ask of the children?

Through community theatre we will give children and older members of the community, an opportunity to express themselves, be exposed to difficult situations and how to manage these situations in a creative way. Using dance, drama and song we will raise their self-esteem, self-worth and give them a sense of belonging, while reducing the long term impact of isolation on their well-being and mental health.

The production features Dido Elizabeth Belle and incorporates a range of activities that will help to develop life-skills, including African drumming and animation. We have partnered with KING BEE Animation that has the following to say about the project:

“I am supporting this fantastic project as I believe it combines a number of qualities that are extremely important in educating young people. It works on two levels. First, it teaches about black history, broadens children’s knowledge of history, promotes diversity and inclusitivity. Secondly, it inspires children to explore key creative skills including signing, voice acting, designing and animating within an exciting project that will be seen by their friends and wider community. The entire project is extremely innovative and I am very proud to be involved.” Martyn Niman, Managing Director, King Bee Animation

Thank you for your support and looking forward to seeing you as a valued member of the audience.

Evadne, Artistic Director