Groundswell has two main areas of activity.     
 
Using  drama to help to begin change.  

This has included:

·         The provision of creative workshops since 1998 in Merseyside bail hostels, (now called approved premises). These workshops aim to use drama and music, as well as film and other media, to increase residents' self-confidence and provide them with an opportunity and means of expression. In addition, the local community is drawn in, attending showings of work. One unusual result was getting lottery funding for a sculpture in the grounds of a hostel.

·         The promotion of health awareness in schools and the community: examples include devising a short diabetes play with music and dance, with choreography by Jacqui Jones, ex- principal dancer of Ballet Rambert; and making a pop promo style video on teenage binge drinking.

·         Productions where ten and eleven year olds perform edited versions of full Shakespeare plays using only Shakespeare's lines. This has included Macbeth, Julius Caesar and King Lear. Productions have had full production values including design, lighting and, in one case, Chinese dance and percussion. A pool of talented freelancers offer a wide range of skills and experience.

 Providing the services of Ian Kellgren

As theatre director and arts consultant - www.iankellgren.co.uk



Contact - thegroundswell@googlemail.com