Young People have fun learning backstage skills at Mercury Theatre

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This February half term, the Mercury Theatre hosted the Aspire: Theatre Work Experience course. The 2-day workshop was funded by Action for Children and was designed for young people with disabilities and additional needs.

The group took part in workshops that broadened their knowledge of theatre-based careers and developed their backstage skills. The workshop was led by our practitioners Robbie, Jenna, Andra and Fabiana, with Mercury professionals delivering specialised sessions in lighting, sound and stage management.

The participants quickly proved their potential for working in the arts as they got their hands on a lighting rig and sound desk with technicians Stuart and Mark.

“This workshop has made me feel great” – Participant feedback

They also got to see our workshop team building and painting the set for our next Made in Colchester production, Turn of the Screw, and quizzed our Wardrobe Manager about panto costumes.

Day 2 was all about getting creative as the group explored their directing skills. They also took on the challenge of designing and making their own costumes in just one hour!

In the afternoon, Emily and Becky from the Mercury’s Stage Management team took the group into our prop store. There was lots of laughter as they searched for various props, including a chicken, a baby, a briefcase and an eyeball!

Finally, our young creatives tried their hand at marketing and produced their own versions of theatre posters. There’s no doubt these young people have the talent, passion and hunger for involvement in the arts.

“Thank you so much for putting on the workshop – was lovely to see him find an activity that he loves and to flourish – means the world to me as a parent the work you do. ” – Parent feedback

The workshop was part of a series of activities funded by Action for Children. You can find out about our upcoming workshops, youth theatres and club nights for young people with disabilities here.

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