New Creative Classes to Begin 13 January at Marlowe Theatre

A NEW term of creative classes with performance opportunities starts at The Marlowe Theatre next week (Monday 13 January).

These popular acting and writing workshops include The Marlowe Diddies (two to four years) and The Marlowe Minis (five to seven years). These provide the perfect introduction to the world of theatre with drama activities, music and games.

The Marlowe Youth Theatre has three different groups: The Marlowe Junior Company (eight to 11 years), The Marlowe Apprentice Company (12 to 15 years) and The Marlowe Senior Company (16 to 21 years). These sessions provide drama training in a fun and supportive environment.

Participants of The Marlowe Youth Theatre will have the opportunity to take part in the theatre's first community participation project, The Garden Of England.

The Garden Of England is an exploration of our county and how it is viewed by its inhabitants - young and old, newly arrived, and by those with their roots firmly in its soil. This new production takes inspiration from Marina Lewycka's novel Two Caravans, alongside first-hand accounts from migrants to Kent.

Participants will work with The Marlowe Theatre's professional creative team on this production which will be open to family, friends and the public. The production will be performed in and around the theatre from Wednesday 9 to Saturday 12 April. Tickets are on sale now and are £7 (£5 concessions).

Current participants of The Marlowe Senior Company will also be taking part in the National Theatre Connections festival at The Marlowe in May, with the potential to go on to perform at the National Theatre.

The Kobler Trust is proud to be supporting the work of The Marlowe Youth Theatre.

The Marlowe's creative classes are not just for children. The Marlowe's People Company (18 years plus) provides enjoyable acting training for all levels of experience.

Led by Marlowe Literary Associate and acclaimed playwright Simon Mendes da Costa, the theatre also offers writing workshops - aiding the development of local writers. Marlowe's Young Writers (13 to 18) and Marlowe's Playwrights (18 and over) give people of all levels of experience the chance to try their hand at writing for the stage. Marlowe's Speakeasy (18 and over) explores different styles of theatre through a mixture of acting and writing exercises.

The Marlowe's Literary Department is supported by The Garfield Weston Foundation.

Head of Creative Projects Daniel Lipman said: "It's great seeing participants grow from term to term, but also to see new faces. This is a really exciting term for participants with our first ever community project - they'll get to take over the theatre, learn a lot in the process but most importantly, have fun."

Workshop places cost £59 for a 10-week term. Places are limited. To find out more, including dates, times and prices, call the Box Office on 01227 787787, go to marlowetheatre.com or email info@marlowetheatre.com.