Photo Flash: THE GARDEN OF ENGLAND at The Marlowe Theatre

The Garden Of England, The Marlowe's first community production, took place last week and involved more than 150 members of the various creative classes, aged from seven to 77. The ambitious project, which looked at what it means to live in Kent, took place over four days in and around the theatre. Scroll down for photos!

Tarquin Taylor (25), a sales consultant from Canterbury, is a member of The Marlowe People's Company and took a leading role in The Garden Of England. He said: "To be honest, it blew my mind! Within five or six months of joining the class I was acting in front of hundreds of people. It was something I never would have tried or considered before and I was surprised at how quickly we learnt and pulled it together."

Emilio Caggiano (8), from Canterbury and a member of The Marlowe Junior Company, said he loved taking part in The Garden Of England, adding: "We worked really hard and there was a lot to remember, but it was great fun and I can't wait to do it again."

A new term of creative classes with performance opportunities starts at The Marlowe Theatre this month (Monday 28 April). The Marlowe welcomes new participants to these acting and writing workshops, with classes for all ages and levels of experience. Participants will have the opportunity to take part in end-of-term performances, and projects on a larger scale, working with The Marlowe's creative team and participants across the sessions.

The Marlowe Minis (for children aged five to seven) provide the perfect introduction to the world of theatre with drama activities, music, movement and games. The Marlowe Youth Theatre has three different groups: The Marlowe Junior Company (eight to 11), The Marlowe Apprentice Company (12 to 15) and The Marlowe Senior Company (16 to 21). These sessions provide drama training in a fun and supportive environment.

Adults also have the chance to learn new skills and have fun with The Marlowe's People Company (18 and over), providing 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.

Head of Creative Projects Daniel Lipman said: "We look forward to the new term for a chance to meet and work with new people of all ages, while continuing the growth of current participants. The feedback we have had is that they relishing the opportunity to try something creative, to learn, meet new people and most importantly, to have a good time."

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.

Garden of England

Garden of England

Garden of England

Garden of England