Regional workshops to build rural street performance skills

A four day workshop aiming to develop skills in spectacle making street performance among artists in rural counties is to take place in March and April.

The workshop is the result of a partnership forged between the Westmeath Arts office and six other local authority arts offices throughout the midlands and surrounding areas.

The initiative is a part of a newly formed regional spectacle training network aimed at strengthening capacity for large scale visual performance and participatory arts practice outside major urban centres.

Peer learning and practical skills development will be the main focus of the programme, and training will run on Saturday March 21 and Sunday March 22 and on Saturday and Sunday April 18 and 19.

Participants will take part in hands-on sessions regarding design, prop making, costuming and street performance techniques.

It is structured as a collaborative learning environment with an emphasis on sharing experience and building professional networks among artists with an interest in spectacle and festive arts.

Shane Crossan from Longford Arts Office said: “This programme responds to a clear need for structured, high quality training opportunities for artists working in spectacle, festival and community arts particularly in rural areas.

“By partnering with Sproai Waterford and neighbouring arts offices, we are supporting skills development while also fostering a regional network of practitioners who can collaborate beyond the duration of the workshops.

“If you are an artist interested in developing spectacle making and performance skills, then this is the course for you.”

Any artists and makers that are 18 or over and have prior spectacle, festival or community arts experience are from one of the participating counties are welcome to apply.

Applications have to be submitted online with a CV and will be assessed by a panel representing the participating arts offices.

The Westmeath Arts Office are pleased to join the training scheme. The application deadline for Westmeath Artists is 5pm on Friday 20 February.

For further information see www.longfordarts.ie.