In 2019/20 only 26% of 5-10 years olds engaged in theatre and drama activities. Children from low-income families are missing out the most because they are less likely to access cultural experiences outside of school. The ongoing cost-of-living crisis has led to a reduction in school trips, including theatre visits. A SOLT & UK Theatre survey suggests, 42% of parents reported fewer school trips in 2022-2023 academic years than in previous years. Our project will go some way to alleviating this.

Work with local primary schools and drama groups to identify demand to establish the number of performances on offer. Employ a children's theatre company, Stuff and Nonsense Theatre Company based in nearby Bridport, to come to Swanage to provide free puppet making workshops and a free or low cost theatre performance for at least 300 local children in our newly refurbished community room performance area, this work would be supported by a local drama group and DBS checked volunteers.