Inside Out Cymru launches a new performing arts project called Creative Hub in Newport in November. Complementing our work in visual arts, Creative Hub focuses on drama and singing to improve wellbeing the community.
The singing group is a new fun class in which participants will learn posture, breathing techniques and vocal range. There will be opportunities to sing solo as well as in a group and even write lyrics and develop vocal arrangements.
Developing performances aimed at tackling the issues of loneliness and isolation, the drama group works with independent living students at Coleg Gwent (Newport Campus), many of whom have additional needs. Collaborating with Inside Out on this project is Reality Theatre, a community theatre group that uses drama to explore a range of social issues.
‘The college is pleased to renew its partnership between Reality Theatre, Inside Out Cymru and Youth Cymru. We are thrilled our learners get the opportunity to access weekly sessions. We look forward to seeing them perform for the public one day soon.’
‘We are proud to offer long-term workshops in the community to support people’s mental health and wellbeing. In the Covid-19 crisis, our workshops have become an even more important part of people’s support networks, breaking down barriers and reducing social isolation.’
Creative Hub is based at The Riverfront in Newport but the venue is closed due to Covid-19 restrictions. Inside Out Cymru hopes both groups will be able to meet there in the new year. In the meantime, the singing group meet at a temporary base at Robbins Lane Studios in Newport and the drama group at the college campus.
The drama group, which is for the independent living students only, starts on Tuesday 17 November. The weekly singing classes start on Wednesday 18 November from 1.30 to 3.30pm.
Mask-making taster sessions have recently been added to the programme for December. They take place on the Thursday 3 and 10 December from 10am to midday.
Inside Out Cymru’s new performing arts project Creative Hub follows all Covid-specific health and safety measures in place with Welsh government guidelines.