Workshops to be Summer Lifeline for Performance-Loving Teens

Open Doors, a National Portfolio Organisation funded by Arts Council England, has organised two summer programmes, one which centres on drama and one on dance.

World Stage is a theatre project led by experienced actor and drama facilitator, Claire Finn, and Open Doors Creative Arts Officer, Milly Lawson. The experience, which promises to ignite participants’ passion for performance, will unfold over 5 weeks, with sessions taking place between 10am and 1pm every Monday from 29 July at Rainworth Village Hall. Sessions will explore worldwide theatrical styles throughout history and enable participants to harness these timeless techniques to shed light on contemporary issues including climate change and environmental activism.

Young people interested in dance can expand their range of styles by discovering Taniec, a brand-new choreography that blends traditional rhythms of Polish folk dance with urban hip hop flair. Taking place at Newark Academy from 10am to 2.30pm each day from Monday 12 to Friday 16 August, sensational London-based pro, Wiktoria Grzes, will help participants craft a performance that will impress and inspire, culminating in an ensemble dance which will be captured on film for friends and family to admire.

Carys Coulton-Jones, Business Manager for Heritage and Culture at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “These activities are such a great way to turn a long, boring summer break into something exciting, productive and really beneficial to young people interested in the performing arts. We’re delighted that the Arts Council funding for Open Doors has enabled us to offer local teens the chance to pursue their passions and gain some invaluable experience for future CVs, further study applications and auditions too.”

Both workshop programmes will offer the chance to achieve a Trinity College London Arts Award, with World Stage leading to a Bronze Award which is a recognized level 1 qualification and Taniec offering an entry level award. No previous experience is necessary and the activities and venues are accessible, with parking available on site at both locations. Places are free for 12 to 18 year olds from Newark and Sherwood but numbers are limited and these must be booked in advance at palacenewark.com or by calling 01636 655755.

For any enquiries, please email milly.lawson@newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk.