“We are delighted to announce that we have been awarded two years of funding from the Kavli Trust to develop our Troupe programme”, said Amy Golding, Curious Monkey’s Artist Director of the Curious Monkey.
Troupe is a group for looked after young people and those who have left care aged 14 – 25 years living in the North East of England.
“Looked after young people are among the most vulnerable in our communities.
Their voices are not always heard by the people who make decisions affecting them and the system in which they live”, says Amy Golding.
The Troupe programme has two main aims: Improve the wellbeing and life chances of looked after young people and care leavers, and position young people’s voices where they can be heard by people who have the power to make positive changes.
The funding from the Kavli Trust will enable the Troupe programme to address these aims through three strands of activity: cultural experiences, creative participation, training and advocacy. Over the next two years, the programme will see the participants attend regular theatre trips, undertake backstage tours, participate in workshops and masterclasses with artists, gain work shadowing opportunities and be supported in progression activity.
The support from the trust has allowed Curious Monkey to employ a dedicated member of staff to support the project.
Jenny Dewar, Curious Monkey’s Company Manager said:
“The funding from the trust will enable Curious Monkey to continue the growth of the Troupe programme which offers young people unique and exciting experiences to become involved with the creative life of the North East of England, to feel valued as part of a community and have the opportunity to express themselves. This project helps young people to have the confidence to try new things, broaden their horizons and widen their future aspirations.”
In addition, the grant will support the production of a 360 film installation created by the young people in collaboration with the Curious Monkey’s creative team.
The film project is about empowering young people to tell others outside of the care system what needs to change. Once complete, the film will be used as a training tool for professionals working within the care system to gain a greater understanding of the experiences of the young people.
“The 360 film installation will provide opportunities for young people to develop tangible skills, share their stories and have creative input and ownership of the project”, said Amy Golding, Curious Monkey’s Artist Director.
“The young people will set up and present the installation at events and conferences, for the public to engage with. It will allow their feelings and experiences of the care system to be shared more widely and provide a platform for change.”
Photos from a symposium held by Curious Monkey in partnership with Children North East following a performance, where audience members had the opportunity to talk about the issues raised in the play. All photos: Curious Monkey