First Posted: Wednesday, 24 October 2012 10:27 pm..
Last Updated: Wednesday, 24 October 2012 10:31 pm

Theatre of Dreams inspiring creative kids this half term

As children, artists Tracy Whitbread and Hannah Stevens were both shaped and nourished by painting, crafts, stories and theatre, and as adults they want to offer these enriching and empowering activities to primary school age children in Arts workshops based around their portable mini-theatre, called the ‘Theatre of Dreams’.

The idea has developed over a period of time from both artists working with children and responding to their needs. Children are given the support and space to bring the theatre alive using painting, crafts, stories, song and dance. They are committed to working with the ideas and imagination that the children bring to the workshop, facilitating and supporting each individual from the introverted through to the more confident in finding their unique creative expression.

These activities are based on a story from a specific culture and Tracy and Hannah recently held a successful workshop based on an Amazon folktale (see photo), at the Crediton Arts Centre.

The story themes help children connect with their own natures and to the wider natural world too. Theatre of Dreams' next workshop will be based on a story from Ethiopia about a very determined girl, who against all odds becomes the best bee keeper of her village. The workshop will be during half term on Monday 29th October 10.00am - 3.00pm at The Hub on the Green, Exeter. The cost per child is £18.50 and covers all materials.

Tracy and Hannah can also work with many themes from the school curriculum for KS1 and KS2 children and can bring the Theatre of Dreams to your village hall too! Hannah Stevens has worked as a Learning Support assistant for children with learning difficulties and holds a BA (Hons) Fine Art degree from Plymouth University.

Tracy Whitbread is a registered DAISI artist, has trained as an Art Therapist at Sheffield University and is an academician at the South West Academy of Arts.

Both artists are CRB checked. If you would like to book your child on the half-term workshop, or if you would like Theatre of Dreams to come to your school or community/arts centre please phone 01363 84407.