Connecting Voices

Multi-sensory storytelling performance at the Royal Engineers Museum Gillingham, co-created with young people attending SEND settings

Connecting Voices

A collaboration the Royal Engineers Museum Gillingham. Funded by Arts Council England. The project included:

An artists training day at the museum in Peoplescape’s inclusive practice
A training day for museum staff in disability awareness and hosting SEND groups.
Explorations of the museum with artists, teachers and museum staff to find inspiring ideas, objects and themes.
16 days of workshops in local SEND schools with 92 children
Devising, scriptwriting and development
Design and creation of multi sensory props including an interactive 'bi-plane'
Participatory performances at the museum of ‘The Sheep on the Tracks’, ‘Samuel Cody’s Incredible Flying Machine’ and ‘We’ll Meet Again"

“Peoplescape bring an exceptional level of dedication, creativity & expertise. Their ability to connect with and inspire SEND young people through tailored, inclusive drama techniques is truly remarkable, ensuring every participant feels seen, heard, & empowered in their journey. We look forward to continuing to work with them in the future and benefiting from their invaluable enthusiasm for projects.”

Amber Coulstock, Deputy Curator Education REM

What an absolute beautiful and inspiring day! Both classes have had an absolute blast from start to finish. Such a privilege for us to receive this project - thank you for choosing us. The model just totally works and pupils felt so secure and invested in the story and also they each owned a piece of it. Thank you for being so inclusive of all their ideas and contributions. The plane really was a total wow moment, simply stunning! It just makes it all feel so very special having the brilliant props and the venue. It all felt real.

Chantal Cook, Head of Expressive Arts Riverside School

"I feel more confident talking in front of people"

"It was fun to watch"

"I feel confident being around people"

"I feel more confident to talk to more people"

Young people who took part in the project

“It was such a joy to join Alison & crew at REM last week. The young people from Riverside had so much fun, they were engaged throughout & enjoyed participating & sharing their learning. This work inspires such confidence in the young people who also made me feel included & welcome & a massive shout out to Emily for this incredible design/make

Jo Rawlinson, Trustee

Photo’s of performance at the museum taken by Amber Coulstock and Eider Guteirez. Thanks to Amber and all at the museum for your support

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