GAP THEATRE PROJECT - TRAINING PROGRAMME Led by: Leisa Rea and Renata Allen Dates: 20 - 25 October 2008 Venue: The Junction, Cambridge Supported by: Arts Council England, East The Gap Theatre Project model is best understood experientially, so this autumn, Company of Angels will offer 10 teachers and 10 experienced young directors the chance to explore how a ‘Gap Project’ could work for them, in their own schools settings. Programme: The INSET will take place over 3 days and the directors training will last a further 2 days. Both will be led by theatre directors Renata Allen and Leisa Rea, both of whom have worked extensively in education. The aim of the training is to take teachers and directors new to the project though a similar experience to the one that the pupils would have on a full Gap Project with Company of Angels. By working practically in a supportive environment, participants will be introduced to a whole range of games, skills and techniques necessary to create an integrated live arts project with children. Working around the idea of Transition and Change, the participants themselves will be guided through the ‘devising’ process – creating from scratch a powerful and engaging group ‘work’, which could include Music, Image, Art, Design, Movement, Puppetry, Clowning and Mime. No experience of any of the above is necessary, as this project harnesses the strengths and interests of the group, as well as teaching new ones. A ‘Gap Project’ addresses the existing challenges of an end of term ‘show’ with its competitive scramble for the best roles – and focuses much more on the inclusion of all children, who work as an ensemble to create something they have all helped to make and are all proud to show. In our feedback from children, being listened to and feeling ownership of the project has always figured highly. We think this is important. If you are a teacher and would like more information or to register your interest for participating in the training programme, please email generalmanager@companyofangels.co.uk. If you are a director interested in participating in the training, please go to our Vacancies page for guidelines on how to apply.