We're always on the hunt for positive stories and this initiative by children's charity Theatre Works looks like a jolly good one. Aimed at primary school children of seven years plus living in or around Edinburgh, Project Any Dream provides the opportunity for schools to apply for subsidised tickets for a performance of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at the Edinburgh Playhouse, plus an in-school singing workshop and a backstage tour of the theatre, with a chance to sing on the stage.
The performance itself stars the one and only Donny Osmond, who has played the titular role at various times over the years – he even starred in the film adaptation in 1999, but this time round he's swapping the coat of many colours for the Pharaoh's crown – plus some pretty dramatic eye makeup. Theatre Works is a charity dedicated to making theatre accessible to children and young people by providing theatre tickets to disadvantaged children across the UK, with the exception of London, as this is already covered by other charities providing tickets. To qualify, schools should have at least 30 per cent of children in their school receiving Pupil Premium (free school meals).
Why is there a need for a children's theatre charity?
Findings from Birkbeck College London show that one in three children in the UK have never visited the theatre – a sad statistic if ever there was one, as the benefits of introducing children to performing arts are numerous. Studies have demonstrated that access to the theatre experience helps broaden the perception of what a child considers they may achieve in life, that it provides a broader tolerance of people from diverse backgrounds and cultures, and opens young minds and imaginations to new ideas. The UK Cultural Learning Alliance, drawing on extensive research, has identified key benefits for children and young people that come from participating in structured arts activities. These include:
- A 17 per cent increase in cognitive abilities
- Improved performance in maths and English
- Children from low-income families being three times more likely to earn a degree
- Higher employability rates
And a study published in Educational Research indicated that children who attended theatre performances also showed a deeper understanding of the story, compared to their peers who watched film versions of the same story instead.
It's not just musicals
As well as discounted tickets, Theatre works also offer access to workshops and guided tours to a wide range of theatrical experiences, including world-class productions at The Globe Theatre, London. Interested schools and community groups can currently apply for up to £2,500 in funding to cover the costs of tickets, transport and related educational experiences. This amount of funding can mean the difference between opening the experience up to a few students, or giving the opportunity to everyone who wants to go.
Another show I'm sure will provide a popular choice for many children is Wicked, and Theatre Works is giving primary schools the opportunity to experience this West End musical under its discounted programme too. The production is aimed at children from seven years of age and is being supported by the producers as part of its Wicked Active Learning education programme. There are hundreds of free tickets available for the London production, with additional tickets available at a discounted rate of £15 each.
What is the future of the scheme going forward?
Theatre Works is committed to carrying on the work its started by continuing to bring the theatre into young lives, and the company is always on the lookout for enthusiastic volunteers who would like to help with the running of the charity (theatreworks.global). The success is ultimately determined by the students it supports. The following are quotes from some children who have participated in various activities:
- ‘I liked the good body language and costumes. The music and humour were very good too and special effects were fantastic. You feel very relaxed and you almost feel like you are in the story.’
- ‘It was very tense when it was the interval and we thought the elephant was going to die. I liked the loud projecting voices. You could hear them at the back.’
Of course, in an ideal world, access to performing arts – and all artistic pursuits – would be available to all children, from every background. Let's hope Keir Starmer is true to his words at this year's Labour Creatives Conference: ‘Every young person must have access to music, art, design and drama … The Labour government will put creativity at the heart of the curriculum’.