Our overarching aim is to use the performing arts – drama, voice production, movement, dance, music, stage fighting, improvisation and song to encourage everyone to develop insight and challenge perceptions. We use these tools to build social skills, develop self esteem, confidence and create aspirations as well as enhance communication skills and teamwork. We embrace working with all age ranges including socially and financially disadvantaged groups within in the community to encourage community spirit and cohesion.

Our target groups are:

• Young people aged 7 - 18
• Hard to reach young people within communities (including those at high risk and young offenders)
• Corporate and public sector training where we use drama based learning.
• Adults or young people with mental health issues.
• Over 50's
  

All facilitators are professionally experienced and highly trained within their fields of expertise. Please see 'The Team' for details of all facilitators background and qualifications.

CURRENT PROJECTS

• Starting in Jan 2012: Weekly Performing Arts classes in Merstham every Saturday morning
• Jan 2012 Launch of "Acting Out" in partnership with Let's Link, workshops using drama to explore different mental health issues, their impact and the help available for individuals. (Please see uploaded leaflet for further information)
• Starting in Feb 2012 weekly dance classes in Merstham for over 50s.
• Starting in Feb 2012 Aspirational and motivational training using drama in partnership with Surestart

IN THE PIPELINE:

• 5 month drama project with 8 - 18 year old from Merstham and Redhill West Ward
• 3 year plan of holiday courses in Merstham
• Short film in early pre production regarding the lives and talents of the over 70s.
• Short film in early discussion phase of "Make It Right" (staged 2011) alongside a schools anti bullying package.
• discussions taking place with other Surrey boroughs to extend projects into other local areas.

Partnerships and funders:

Currently linked with Raven Housing, Hyde Housing, Southern Housing, Reigate and Banstead Council, Merstham Millenium Trust, Norbury Saw Mill, Surrey Youth Clubs, CIAG, The Shaw Trust, Maximus, Surrey county Council, Surrey Young Carers, Let's Link and the Merstham Community Facility.

Getting involved:

If you would like to take part in a project, fund a project or volunteer your time to help a project , please contact Louisa on 07957 361631 or louisalawrenson@hotmail.com for more information. We are always interested in new skills that a volunteer may have, whether it be in stage management, stage craft or just a willingness to help.