'Be The Change' free applied theatre & creative arts sessions

28 May 2024

Following the huge success of last year's weekly sessions for adults navigating homelessness, recovery from substance abuse, and mental health services, 'Be The Change' innovative applied theatre and creative arts project returns to The Margins Project Hall here at Union Chapel for a full year!

Starting on 13 June 2024, the free evening sessions help build community, confidence, wellbeing, and unlock creativity to empower and improve lives. This time, the programme expands its offering from drama and theatre to include spoken word, creative writing, visual arts, movement, improvisation, character creation, and more - with no experience necessary.

Led by Islington People's Theatre in collaboration with The Margins Project and Rehearse The Revolution, the sessions will run on Thursdays 6.30-8.30pm here at Union Chapel's Lower Hall in 5, 10-weekly blocks. Participants are encouraged to attend as many sessions as possible to maximise development, enjoyment, and community and will also be invited to free theatre and live event trips. Learn more on the flyer here and email Islington People's Theatre here for more info or to express interest to attend.

A huge 'thank you' to funder National Lottery Community Fund support to that these sessions can return and extend to a full year, following the 6 week project from September and October 2023 that proved to be so crucial to the wellbeing of those who took part, as shown in their feedback below:

"I have responded well to the project. I have gained a pathway to recovery. I am acquiring people skills and using techniques in real life"

[would you like to see a weekly dropin set up throughout the year] "Yes I would like it to address the theme of one world one identity inclusivity and diversity. Harmony among nations"

"I thoroughly enjoy the mix, the people, the enthusiasm, the talent, the willingness to share lived and creative experience"

"The chance to express myself and improve my assertiveness skills. I couldn't participate if it wasn't free! Very enjoyable and lucky to have you all"

The Margins Project, based at Union Chapel, is a frontline charity offering a range of services supporting people facing homelessness and other critical living crisis. These services, run in three interconnected programmes, are designed to improve the immediate, interim, and long-term living conditions of our guests.