Learning through theatre  

Refugee Roots and the Nottingham Playhouse have been hosting weekly drama workshops to help with English language learning and building confidence through performance. Led by professional actors and artists, the workshops have included drama games and storytelling as forms of expression and empowerment. 

In November, the Playhouse and Refugee Roots will join together to provide English conversation support and drama workshops on Tuesdays. There will be the Playhouse Conversation Café from 1-2.15pm for refugees and asylum seekers who can come for a free hot drink and a relaxed space to chat. The conversation class will be followed by our Access Art drama group from 2.30-4.30pm. The sessions will begin Tuesday 7th November until Tuesday 5th December. 

A highlight from our partnership with the Playhouse was collaborating with Gecko to learn more about their work and run a creative workshop. Gecko brought their production of Kin to the Nottingham playhouse, which follows the journey of a young child travelling from Yemen to Palestine in 1932. With funding from Arts Council England, Refugee Roots participants were provided £1 tickets to watch the show with a backstage tour and bespoke Q&A session. 

We are excited to continue exploring engagement through theatre at the Playhouse as part of our Access Art projects, which currently also includes a weekly art session on Fridays. These projects have been valuable in creating a sense of belonging and community among those who need it most.