AUGUST 2004
The summer term saw 43 performances and workshops in Sheffield, Rotherham, Chesterfield, Nottingham, Leicester, Birmingham and Manchester, including work in special schools for pupils with physical and learning disabilities.
A new play “Lost at the Seaside ” was written and performed to key stage 1 children at Thornton near Leicester as part of their topic on seasides.
Gainsborough Arts Centre commissioned a play on the subject of Regency childhood, as part of the theme of their "Lark in the Park" event. This resulted, on August 1st, of the performance of a new play, "The Secret". The story is of a mine owner and his wife who cannot have children and yet long for a son and heir. When they find a baby boy abandoned on their doorstep they decide to adopt him but the story takes a dramatic turn when, six years later, his twin brother is found in strange circumstances.
Autumn 2004 is rapidly becoming booked and includes work in special schools again, which is a feature of Mary's work in which she is particularly trained and experienced.
JULY 2004
This last academic year has been a busy one for Mary including writing and performing new plays as well as teaching drama and creative writing workshops.
The autumn term saw the performances of two new plays, “The Unwelcome Hero” for Key stages 3-6 and “Miss Miggins and the Fox Cub” for pre-school and nursery children.
The collaboration with children's illustrator, Lynne Chapman at Rotherham Arts centre was very successful and both look forward to other similar work.
FEBRUARY 2004
This month saw Mary touring schools in the Isle of Wight followed by a fully booked March.
JANUARY 2004
This month saw the launch of the eight week disabilities arts project known as “Action Arts”. This was very successful and on February 28 th there was a presentation of the work. This included film clips of the classes as they took place, art work and recordings of music devised and played by the group. A video incorporating filming by members of the group is at present being edited. Further funding is being sought for another such course to take place next year. Mary was project co-ordinator and drama tutor.
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