FUNNY OLD ME
In April 2009 The Gate staged a residency at the New Horizons centre in Chelsea, offering creative workshops to the over 70s. Participants took part in practical introductory workshops in choreography, playwrighting and songwriting, many developing new skills for the first time.
Workshop practitioners included Ann Dickie, whose dance company From Here to Maturity was formed to provide opportunities for older dancers; playwright Chris Thorpe, and composer Daffyd James. Comments from participants included:
“I really benefitted from the Playwrighting workshop. And would really like having more opportunities of doing similar courses in the future”
“Felt I learnt so much from the teachers and other effortlessly”
“I loved it”.
The Gate plans to continue developing its work with older people; if you are interested in hearing about future projects, please contact participate@gatetheatre.co.uk.