Theatre programs for healthy communities
Off-stage, our community programs help foster healthy communities, forge new connections for ageing well, and support mental health outcomes in groups living with post-traumatic stress disorder.
When we’re not creating wonderful theatre experiences on stage, the Company provides programs designed to engage and enrich the community in other ways. Over the past couple of years, we have offered workshops and social events aimed at breaking the cycle of isolation and loneliness affecting some parts of our community.
A Date with State and Theatre for Change are two programs funded by SA Health’s Office for Ageing Well that have made significant positive impacts on the lives of participants.
A Date with State helps older and socially isolated patrons to continue to attend the theatre despite life changes, such as the loss of a partner or new living circumstances.
For the price of a show ticket, participants attend a pre-matinee afternoon tea where they meet other like-minded theatre-lovers, as well as mingle with Company staff and creatives. It’s been wonderful to see new connections being formed among those attending select shows through the year, while continuing to enjoy a beloved past-time.
Through Theatre for Change, which concluded last year, we ran a series of theatre skills workshops in conjunction with Mental and Emergency Services Health Australia (MESHA).
Aimed at men and women who served in the armed services or worked in the emergency services, some participants have also been living with post-traumatic stress disorder.
The workshops helped guide participants to explore feelings and discover how to play different scenarios in different ways. Reported benefits were varied including finding new ways for participants to apply existing skills, develop new skills, explore different forms or expression or merely to meet regularly with others with similar shared experience.
In 2022, as part of our partnership with ECH, we’re delivering a new series of workshops to engage and support queer community residents in aged care of assisted living facilities.
The Storytelling as Monologue project will pair ECH residents with local artists, and will give participants the opportunity to learn writing craft, theatrical principles and monologue performance, in a safe and engaging environment.
Are you interested in participating in any of these programs? Contact Catherine Bauer on 8415 5380 or cbauer@statetheatrecompany.com.au for more information.