Projects
We are always delighted to be approached by schools and other organisations to consider ways of working together. If you would like to discuss ways in which we can help you, please contact Beth Flintoff on 01635 570927 or email .
MORPHEUS
The Watermill has been working again in collaboration with the members of Morpheus Theatre at the Phoenix Centre for Learning Disability, this time aimed at the creation of a new short film for distribution to other day centres and general viewing. The film will tackle the issues surrounding relationships in the Learning disabled community and The Watermill’s Ade Morris has already laid the foundations for the coming film with a series of workshops at the centre examining the topics of family life, bullying, falling in love, and children. Members of Morpheus Theatre have written poetry and discussed the ups and downs of these subjects with Ade during the workshops. It is hoped that these themes and the material gathered can be turned into a screenplay by Ade which can then be enacted and filmed by the day centre clients themselves. Funding is required to take this project forward.
THEATRE IN EDUCATION TOURING
The Watermill has a reputation for high quality Theatre in Education touring, including our 2011 production of Doctor Faustus, which toured secondary schools and theatres. Other shows include The Salmon’s Tale examining water conservation in the Kennet Valley, and Beth The Bin Lady looking at the recycling issues. The Roof Project, in collaboration with the Reading Single Homeless Project toured to primary schools throughout Berkshire to help remove prejudice and misconception of the nature and causes of homelessness. We are hoping to tour again this year with a new version of Michael and Mum a play first commissioned by Margate Theatre Royal and aimed at the children of families affected by alcohol abuse. Funding is required to take this project forward.
BOXFORD MASQUES
Every two years when possible the Watermill Theatre joins forces with the people of Boxford and surrounding communities to stage, in early August, The Boxford Masques high on a wooded hill overlooking the Lambourn Valley. This magical and original community show involves a cast of over sixty local people and is seen by audiences of thousands, an all singing, all dancing and extraordinary celebration of the spirit of summer.
"This was a wonderful evening of romance, music and comedy brought seamlessly together by the fabulous creative and producing team from The Watermill Theatre." Newbury Weekly News
FEDERATION OF RURAL PRIMARY SCHOOLS PROJECT
This extraordinary biennial project involves working with seven small rural primary schools to create a production, performed on The Watermill’s own stage, involving some 160 pupils. The project has been running for fourteen years.
"That was so good! I don't want it to end!" (Megan, aged 11yrs)
"It was a fantastic opportunity for our children and one that they will remember for a very long time." (Parent)
"I just wanted to say a HUGE thank you from everyone here.... The children have done nothing but rave about it ever since!" (Teacher)
EDUCATION & BUSINESS PARTNERSHIP WORKSHOPS
The Education & Business Partnership’s Take a Chance programme is designed to stimulate the confidence and business skills of GCSE students to inspire them to think about their future careers. Held at Vodafone, a series of workshops throughout the year, delivered by our Watermill facilitators, develop teamwork, presentation and organisation skills in some 100 students from schools across West Berkshire.
Our core Education and Outreach work is generously supported by The Dr. Mortimer and Theresa Sackler Foundation.