Graffiti writes brighter future
Their last production was never seen by a live audience, but Graffiti Theatre Company this week launched a new website and reimagined theatrical programmes for 2020.
The company has plans for more exciting and imaginative programmes too.
Their latest professional production ‘Trasna’ was due to begin the first of its schools showings when Level 3 restrictions were introduced, meaning the production had to be shelved before a live audience could see it. However the team have plans to reimagine the presentation of this production about self-discovery, adventure, friendship and loss.
Graffiti have adjusted to the post-Covid world with many of their in-person workshops for children and young people, creative writing classes and youth theatre sessions all available online.
The arts organisation has seen the likes of Enda Walsh, Siobhan McSweeney, Shane Casey and Eileen Walsh come through its workshops and stage.
Though the doors of their building in Blackpool closed in March, since then they have been delivering the bulk of their planned programme of work in innovative ways.
Graffiti’s Activate Youth Theatre’s production ‘Migrations’ was produced virtually throughout Lockdown 1.0 and morphed into a short-animated film instead.
Graffiti is determined to stay connected with young people. A spokesperson said: “Although we've been forced to close the door of our theatre, we've been keeping busy, reimagining new ways to continue working with children and young people, and keeping the spirit of creativity alive. A big part of that has been the development of our new website and our considerable online offerings. For us, it's a way of reaching out, holding a connection, it's a splash of colour and a flag of hope.”
Along with theatre pieces both by children and for children and their commitment to educating children through innovative workshops and courses, Graffiti has continued to develop children’s confidence and mental wellbeing through participation in the arts.
Their numerous programmes include creative learning in-class workshops, their BEAG Early Years programme for 0-3 year olds, Activate Youth Theatre, and their creative writing and storytelling programme, Fighting Words.
Founded in 1984 by Emelie FitzGibbon, Graffiti has decades of experience providing safe, creative environments where young people can explore their potential with our trained and vetted facilitators. Graffiti offers a range of opportunities for young people to engage in the arts.
To support Graffiti as they make young people’s lives better, email Lynn Canham, General Manager on lynn@graffiti.ie for more information on how you can become part of Graffiti’s Friends programme.
See graffiti.ie for more.