In collaboration with Artswork and the Hampshire and I.O.W Violence Reduction Unit, BearFace Theatre are delivering an innovative project called ‘Choices’. BFT will deliver creative, participatory workshops in schools with Year 6 and 7 pupils. Each workshop begins with this 3 minute animation that introduces two key characters, Jo/Joe and Buddy. The film was inspired by the voices and experiences of young offenders in HMP/YOI Winchester and animated by Neck of the Woods Films.
The Choices workshops use this animation as a stimulus, followed by games, discussion and forum theatre techniques which encourage the pupils to delve into the characters of Buddy and Jo/Joe. Both have some choices to make about the risky and challenging situations that they are experiencing.
Each pupil will attend two workshops with BearFace Theatre and we aim to offer a safe space to explore the characters, ideas and solutions that will support the pupils to build positive and healthy relationships and clear decision-making as they develop and grow. Over the next two years, over 10,000 pupils in Hampshire and I.O.W will take part in the Choices project.
BearFace Theatre CIC use Applied Theatre for personal progression and social change. We work with a variety of groups and specialise in working with those affected by the criminal justice system. BFT have been working in Hampshire and surrounding counties for over 15 years, designing and delivering bespoke multi-arts based programmes. Through performance, storytelling, poetry, film and creative arts we provide vibrant and inspiring workshop spaces that invite creativity and personal development.
