Outreach, Education & Community

The Theatre Royal is committed to being a resource for people living in Thanet, East Kent and beyond. We offer education workshops to schools and colleges, presentation training to businesses, and openings for local people to get involved in the life of their theatre.

Education

The Teenage Pregnancy Project

We are pleased to be working with Peer Productions in delivering this performance workshop to schools and youth groups in Thanet and beyond during the spring term. Groups will be led by performance in examining the truths, lies and myths surrounding this thorny issue.

The Ethanol Project

Summer term will see us touring our own piece of forum theatre to schools, focussing on the pitfalls and dangers of alcohol abuse. Students will be encouraged to take part in the drama-led debate.

We can lead workshops and activities in your school, either to enhance the teaching of your curriculum or to offer new experiences and widen horizons. From week-long residencies to hour-long workshops, all our schools work is carefully tailored, taking consideration of teachers’ requirements. All our workshop leaders are very experienced as well as being practising theatre professionals.

Standard 90-minute workshops for Primary Schools include: Off the Page, Speaking and Listening, Shakespeare and the Tudors, The Victorians and their Theatre, Transformation, Reading and Understanding.

For Secondary Schools and Colleges we offer workshops at all levels to complement the English and Drama curriculum. Workshops are available on any of Shakespeare’s plays as well as many of the modern set texts. We also offer sessions in Mask, Stanislavski, Brecht, Edexcel Unit 6 and Commedia dell’Arte. Workshops linked to our professional season can also be made available.

Teacher INSET Days can also be arranged at your school, focussing on Voice or Shakespeare in the Classroom.

For all Education enquiries please contact Will on 01843 293397 or by e-mail: will @ theatreroyalmargate.co.uk.

Education Packs

Many of our visiting companies provide education packs which, where possible, will be downloadable from our website. Unless otherwise stated, education packs are free.

Youth Theatres & Theatre Royal Actors Company (TRAC)

The Theatre Royal hopes to involve as many people as possible in the life of the theatre. As well as our regular groups (see below), we are mounting a 24 hour Shakespeare Project – anyone is welcome to take part, whatever their experience, taking an active, lively and fun look at some of the greatest words ever written for the stage. From 2008 we are looking to start regular weekly sessions with different age-groups: 6-11, 11-16, 16-24 and 25+. Each group will present a performance at the Theatre Royal. If you would be interested in being part of TRAC please call and leave your details on 01843 293397.

Junior Youth Theatre (7-11 yr olds)

Meeting on Saturday term-time mornings from February, groups will learn basic drama skills through stimulating games and activities. A great way of developing imagination, confidence, concentration, self-esteem and social skills while having fun at the same time. Each term will culminate in a small showing to an invited audience. No audition necessary. Termly fee: £45.

Senior Youth Theatre (11-16 yr olds)

Meeting on Wednesday evenings during term-time, this group will enjoy drama activities and games led by a professional theatre practitioner. A fantastic way to make strong friendships and develop social skills, teamwork and confidence. Each year the group will take part in a professionally-supported production for a public audience. No audition necessary. Termly fee: £45.

The Academy (16+)

Thursday evenings during term time. For people interested in pursuing a career in theatre, either on- or-off stage. Advanced skills will be taught and a professionally supported production will be staged each year. An audition may be necessary. Termly fee: £45.

Skills Sundays

Full-day workshops (10am-4pm) for more experienced adults (16+) with an interest in theatre who would like to improve their performance skills. From February 10th sessions will take place on the 2nd Sunday of every month (no session in August or December) and will focus on aspects of performance including acting, movement, character, directing, mask, voice, transformation, and group singing. All sessions will be led by trained professional theatre practitioners. All sessions cost £15 (Discounts apply when booking more than one session).

To enquire about Youth Theatre or Skills Sundays please call Will on 01843 293397.

Business

The Theatre Royal uses tried-and-tested drama techniques to improve your business presentations and contribute to your staff training programme. Sessions can focus on Teamwork, Creativity and Communication. Bespoke projects and one-on-one tutorials can also be arranged. To book call 01843 293397.