Happy New Year to you all. We are thrilled to be back, running all of our Doorstep groups, Doorstep Youth Theatre (DYT), Doorstep Arts Studio course (DAS), After School Clubs & Sat Drama. Our theme for the Spring Term is BAGGAGE. We’re diving into an exciting exploration of the things we carry – both inside and out! From backpacks stuffed with treasures, to emotions, memories, and dreams, we’ll unpack the physical and invisible “baggage” that makes us who we are.
Here is an update from each of our groups:
DYT
This term at DYT has gotten off to an unusual start, with the departure of long-term Lead Artist Sam! Sam, who grew up in Paignton, has secured two very exciting opportunities as a writer with the Bristol Old Vic and the BBC, and we’re all really happy for him but sorry to say goodbye for now. To work with Helen for the remainder of the term we are welcoming the wonderful Mich, who came along to our second session to meet the group and see them in action.
We’re diving straight into devising around the theme of ‘Baggage’ now as we look forward to a Share and Scratch event on Monday 17th February in Stage Left (7-9pm) with DreamArts, our brilliant partner organisation from Westminster! If you’d like to join us for this youth exchange event please email Helen (helen@doorsteparts.co.uk).
DAS
This term, we’re excited to welcome a variety of guest artists to DAS. We believe it’s essential for the children to work with skilled professionals who have industry experience and can share their expertise. The children have been exploring the theme of “baggage,” which has sparked imaginative ideas for their end-of-term sharings. We’ve heard ideas ranging from Mary Poppins with her magic bag, to characters from Wicked carrying books, to a time-traveling bag and a genie bag. We’re eager to see where these ideas lead them this term.
Our guest artists this term include:
* Paris Selley: Professional Dancer, Choreographer, Director, and South Devon College Drama Teacher
* Morgan Westcott: Singer, Actor, and Dancer with experience in touring shows and cruise ships
* Lily Howe: Performer, Dancer, Musician, and experienced Director
AFTER SCHOOL CLUB
Brixham CoE & Homelands Primary
Harriet is really looking forward to this term at Homelands Primary and the students are already working so hard. This term we will be creating dances as a group as well as giving the kids the opportunity to explore some choreography individually if they feel comfortable. The group work so well together so I can’t wait to see what we produce as a unit.
I believe dance is important for multiple reasons. It helps to improve co-ordination, stamina and flexibility while also helping to build confidence, friendship and expressive skills in a fun environment. These are skills that are so useful in lots of other fields of work, not just theatre careers.
Brixham CoE have been bouncing with excitement this term, sharing fantastic ideas of Baggage and devising a piece that inspires their imaginations. They are a group keen to involve dance and singing whilst learning the main elements of performing.
SATURDAY DRAMA
Wow, what an amazing few weeks back. Full of energy with all member extremely excited for the end of term sharing’s. We are already devising, getting to grips with some new scripts and learning group songs for our talent show. Both the older groups and the little Doorsteppers are working really hard and showing off their creativity in order to put on the show of a lifetime.
