PoGo Arts Performing Arts Summer School

PoGo Arts received funding from the Community Chest in June 2022 to run a Performing Arts Summer School at the Acton Gardens Community Centre. It was run by Diane and Buki and was held two days per week for three weeks, over the summer holidays.

When applying for the Community Chest, they said:

“We realise now more than ever the importance of children having a positive and creative outlet and have seen how the pandemic has impacted the mental health of children all over the country.

In our workshops, as well as learning how to express themselves, we help the children learn important life skills such as working as a team, public speaking, self-discipline, confidence and communication, and professionalism.

Most performing arts schools for children are quite costly, which means that many children who are not from affluent backgrounds, don’t have access to them. So, although our workshops are for all children across the board, we also want to give that opportunity to children from lower income families.”

During the Summer Camp the children took part in drama games and exercise, learning to work together in small groups and how to give and receive support from others. Over the three-week programme each workshop taught them a different aspect of performance with a focus on music, dance and drama, including character work and mask work. The children came away with new skills, as well as an appreciation and understanding of how to use those skills in a performance production.

They received feedback highlighting the positive impact the sessions had on the children, improving their confidence, and asking to come back for more sessions where they were once hesitant.

If you are interested in applying for funding to benefit your community, please visit www.yoursouthacton.co.uk/project-funding/community-chest.