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Workable Arts 2015

'Delays Possible'

‘Delays Possible’

Last Thursday, 13th November 2014, saw the culmination of a 16 week project called ‘Workable Arts’ funded by The Southwest Community Foundation with money from The European Social Fund and the Skills Funding Agency.

The performance piece was called ‘Delays Possible’ and the show was created by people with disabilities and mental health issues and was devised to help them to overcome barriers to employment.

The project used a range of arts mediums including drama and visual art to develop advocacy, planning and team working skills.  The aim was to raise self-esteem and build confidence to increase their future working and training ambitions.

On Thursday 7th August participants reached the half way stage in the project.  This was celebrated with an exhibition of artwork displayed in the restaurant at the Wyvern Theatre.

Felt wall hanging

Felt wall hanging

The final 8 sessions were devoted to drama creating the final, powerful piece of theatre called ‘Delays Possible’ on Thursday 13th November at the Wyvern Theatre.  The show used the theme of road works to enable the group to tell individual stories highlighting problems they have experienced trying to achieve their employment goals.

Reach would like to thank everyone who helped with this project. A number of artists were engaged, Gina Dunford was supported by Theresa York for the visual arts section.  Laura Barnes was assisted by Natasha Garbutt on the drama work. Volunteers included Celia Ford, Sian White, Danny Wyatt, Harriet Dearing and Andy Hobson who gave their time freely throughout the project.  Invaluable help was given on the day of the performance by staff from Threadneedle Investments who provided refreshments and helped to set-up and clear away.

Threadneedle Investment Group

Threadneedle Investment Group