Bungay theatre launches youth initiative
The Fisher Theatre, Bungay, has launched a new initiative to help youngsters from across Norfolk and Suffolk experience life in a commercial theatre.The initiative has two main aims - to help schools introduce youngsters to the theatre and encourage interest in theatre youth groups, and to offer assistance to schools and colleges in projects that may help prepare older students for employment or higher education.
The Fisher Theatre, Bungay, has launched a new initiative to help youngsters from across Norfolk and Suffolk experience life in a commercial theatre.
The initiative has two main aims - to help schools introduce youngsters to the theatre and encourage interest in theatre youth groups, and to offer assistance to schools and colleges in projects that may help prepare older students for employment or higher education.
Letters have gone out to the headteachers of 25 local schools and colleges highlighting the unique opportunities for student development that exist within a theatre environment. Recent example of schools working with the theatre are Great Yarmouth College and Bungay Middle School.
The Fisher is offering its theatre facilities and in-house expertise to support projects. This includes a backstage tour, an introduction to the theatre, A-level course-led workshops or a full stage production.
The theatre already supports individual students doing work experience but this initiative is very different.
Theatre manager Chris Moore said: “A single stage production is like a mini business.
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“This production can involve many students with a wide variety of individual interests and skills.
“The process will develop their ability to work together as a team toward a single aim.
“Individual interests may include writing, directing, stage and set design, lighting and sound technology, marketing, customer service and, of course, acting.”
And while many schools have their own facilities, teachers and students believe that working with a “live theatre” is exciting, challenging and rewarding.
Seating around 100 people The Fisher Theatre is
the ideal size for such projects.
The 60 auditorium floor panels, that can be individually raised or lowered, offer endless stage design opportunities encouraging students to be imaginative.
“Since reopening two years ago the theatre has gained an enviable reputation with both audiences and performers,” said Mr Moore.
“The auditorium facilities and acoustics are excellent and allow us to offer a varied programme to a high standard.
“But we have a saying here in which we passionately believe:
The Fisher…not just a Theatre.”
“The building is well used by the local community for classes, workshops, private parties and business meetings.
“We have had a small number of schools work with us already and the benefits are clearly
seen. Youngsters love coming here and enjoy the backstage tour.”
