New drama groups seek budding actors

January 2020

Designed to build confidence and grow skills, the practical and fun sessions are aimed at anyone looking to enjoy drama-based activities in a friendly, supportive environment.

There are separate sessions for adults and young people. Both are led by professional facilitators and will offer an excellent opportunity to learn performing skills and put on shows in Hanger Farm’s stunning 18^th century wooden barn.

These groups for the general public join two separate existing sessions for people aged 16 or over that are for people with a learning disability, autism and other additional needs. The weekly workshops have been helping more than 30 budding actors to build confidence, develop communication skills and make new friends.

As well as its work with the community theatre, Minstead Trust also supports more than 200 people with learning disabilities to achieve greater independence, lead fulfilled lives and live as full citizens in society.

The Arts Centre runs shows and events all year – with high quality comedy, music and theatre from some of the country’s most talented performers. Every ticket bought helps the Trust’s charitable work to support people with learning disabilities.

Emma Golby-Kirk, Head of Arts Programming at Hanger Farm Arts Centre, said: ‘We are very excited about the further development of our community theatre at Hanger Farm Arts Centre. Adding the adult and youth groups alongside our existing learning disability-focused groups will create wonderful drama opportunities for the whole community. We aim to focus on the ideas and skills of the people in our groups, and we use drama games, devising, singing, music and text work to create unique and engaging performances.’

The adult group will run every Monday from 11.30am to 1pm from 9 March. The youth theatre group is running a taster session on Wednesday 11 March, 6.30 to 8pm and then runs regular weekly sessions from 8 April. Both sessions are £5.50 per-person, per-week.mmunity Theatre groups receive funding from Arts Council England and Hampshire County Council