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Our drama group was founded in October 2006 after a successful mini pilot the previous summer. It is aimed as children and young people ages 7 –16 who would normally find it difficult, challenging or scary fitting into regular or mainstream clubs either because of some kind of communication and interaction disability or because of their social experiences to date. It is an open group however and has some members who come just because they love it. Our main aim is to increase personal and social confidence through drama games, improvisation and regular productions. As part of the experience of being in the group we have also included activities such as script writing, music and prop making and have an annual trip to see an inclusive theatre production. This year it was ‘A Christmas Carol’ at the Chickenshed Theatre in London. Our group of 18 presently is run adult volunteers and led by a professional drama leader who is supported by younger volunteers many of whom are members of the Kent Youth Theatre. Since our inception we have watched our group develop strong bonds with each other and grow in self esteem and confidence in an environment which encourages self expression and creativity. We have put on 4 productions so far and are planning our next 2 at Easter. At our start up with had matched funding from Maidstone Borough Council Art which we used wisely to put on our productions and develop our activities. This funding was exhausted in March 07. We bid again to MBC but were unsuccessful. We are aiming to make the group completely self financing and are looking at ways of achieving this at the moment. Thanks to the sponsorship of a local building company last year and a small donation from Dan Daley, KCC Councillor we have been able to continue with our activities so far but we have finite resources to do so at present. All group members pay subs that cover basic costs but not productions or other activities. What we have achieved so far has been done by word of mouth and without any formal publicity. We’d like to develop a website and promote the group more with the aim of running a second senior group for 12 –16 year olds. Most of all we want this group to continue for those children and young people that get excluded either intentionally or otherwise from drama activities. Our group is not about ‘stars’ but about being involved and taking part. Thanks NICOLA LODEMORE Square Pegs Organiser |
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