About Charley's Aunt Workshops

We’re teaming up with Newbury Pride and Berkshire Youth to celebrate and explore the themes of our smash-hit production, Charley's Aunt, with a series of free workshops.

Get involved in drama sessions, design workshops and drop-in art sessions all centred around ideas of gender identity, reimagining classic texts and the creative process behind producing a new theatre production. 

These free workshops, taking place at Berkshire Youth during October half term, are open to anyone aged 14 -17.

 

29 October:

1.15pm - Re-write The Text
This workshop will focus on reimagining classic texts through a 21st century lens. Explore how to update themes and characters to reflect modern attitudes and values with a Watermill writer, and create your own ideas and concepts for new adaptations of much-loved stories.

2.30pm - Character Design Workshop
Find out about the creative process behind designing for theatre from one of the Watermill’s theatre designers, and create some original costume concepts of your own. 

3.45pm - Community Collage 
Create part of our communal bunting! Join local queer artist Eden (she/they) to explore and celebrate themes around LGBTQIA+ identity through adding to our fabric bunting in any way you choose. We look forward to seeing what you create using fabric collage, pens, needles and thread.

5pm - A Place To Be You
A warm and welcoming session for LGBTQ+ young people and those exploring their identity to connect with others in a friendly, open and nurturing environment. This fun drama-based session will be a safe space where individuality is celebrated and everyone is welcomed to be their true self. 

 

30 October:

1.15pm - Comedy Through Character
Explore how Victorian comedy can be reimagined through a 21st century lens. Using sections of the Charley’s Aunt script, we’ll explore themes of gender identity and the representation of characters on stage through comedy. 

2.30pm - Direct The Drama
Led by a Watermill Theatre director, gain insight into the directing process and learn what’s involved in creating and representing onstage relationships. Using the Charley’s Aunt script as a springboard, you’ll have a chance to direct a section of the play. 

3.45pm - Community Collage 
Collaborate and create a piece of group artwork! Come and join local artist Jacky in our graffiti art session.  This workshop offers a fun opportunity to explore personal identity and themes around LGBTQI+ , using painting techniques and stencil work.

5pm - A Place To Be You
A warm and welcoming session for LGBTQ+ young people and those exploring their identity to connect with others in a friendly, open and nurturing environment. This fun drama-based session will be a safe space where individuality is celebrated and everyone is welcomed to be their true self. 

Prices
Free
Venue
Berkshire Youth, Kennet Studio, Waterside Centre Waldegrave Place, Northbrook St, Newbury RG14 1DS
Age Guidance
For ages 14-17