Olion
Lead organisation:
Frân Wen
Area:
Bangor
Investment Priorities:
Community and Place
Multiply
Investment: £356,252
What’s the background?
Frân Wen is a theatre company for children and young people based in Y Nyth, Bangor. The company had been running a ‘Nabod’ project with GISDA’s young people for some time, and they developed a story and characters inspired by the theme of the Arianrhod legend. That was the beginning of ‘Olion’, with the vision of offering something different to artists and audiences.
The aim was to create opportunities and provide a safe space for children and young people to find their voice and to influence a production that will reflect the challenges they have faced growing up.
The crew of Cwmni Serol, a theatre project for young people with additional needs, also had the opportunity to join the production. The crew meet weekly to develop their performance skills and have been specifically supported by the fund to develop their numeracy skills through creative activities.
What was the support?
A programme of engagement and activities with different groups from the Bangor Community was held over 18 months, which introduced the arts to people of all ages and backgrounds. A community cast gained experience in working with experienced artists on a professional production.
A live and digital performance of a ground-breaking three-part production took place around the city of Bangor, giving the audience an interactive experience. There was also a show in the theatre at Pontio, theatre at locations in Bangor, and an outdoor community festival with live music, food and dancing. A short film, combining material from parts one and two closed the production.
What difference has this made?
Nearly 4000 people were creatively engaged during the program. This included several different local communities in the area, with a large number of them participating in theatrical activity and a live performance for the first time. Many said they enjoyed being part of a community and social experience, and as a result were less lonely. In addition to the community cast, 14 young people gained work experience, and 42 people volunteered on the production. Over 3000 visitors came to the live event, and local businesses benefited from the buzz during the rehearsals and community festival.
Putting young people creatively at the heart of every production is at the core of our vision at Fran Wen. By working with GISDA, Olion had ensured that we were able to do this whilst allowing us to bring the highest quality professional production to Bangor.
Gethin Evans
Frân Wen Artistic Director
This has been such a valuable experience for a group of young people who often feel excluded. Seeing their confidence grow at the same time as seeing this production come to life has been inspiring. It has also given them a glimpse into some of the work and career opportunities in theatre and the arts.
Sian Elen Tomos,
GISDA Chief Executive
