The Next Stage - Workshops/ Showcase

The Next Stage was a successful 38-week community drama programme created and delivered by Reflect Productions GY CIC in Great Yarmouth, with funding through National Lottery Awards for All.

The programme provided a welcoming, inclusive and supportive environment in which local people could explore theatre, storytelling and creative expression. It was designed to make participation accessible to people who may experience barriers such as anxiety, low confidence, social isolation or challenges connected with their mental wellbeing. No previous acting experience was required, and participants were encouraged to contribute at their own pace.

Across the 38 weeks, the group explored improvisation, storytelling, character development, scene work, movement, script development and collaborative performance. The regular sessions gave participants time to build trust, develop confidence, share ideas and work creatively with others. From the early introductory activities through to rehearsals for the final performance, the programme placed equal importance on the creative process, personal contribution and the sense of connection developed within the group.

The programme was completed successfully and culminated in The Next Stage Community Showcase, bringing together work developed throughout the project. The showcase celebrated the participants’ creativity, commitment and progress while giving the group an opportunity to share its work through live performance. The filmed showcase also provides a lasting record of the programme and its achievements.

The Next Stage demonstrated the value of sustained, accessible community theatre. It created regular opportunities for people to meet, collaborate, express themselves and take part in a shared creative experience. It also demonstrated Reflect Productions GY CIC’s ability to plan, manage and deliver a long-term funded community arts programme from initial engagement through to a final public outcome.

The successful completion of The Next Stage has strengthened our commitment to making theatre accessible to people who may not ordinarily have opportunities to participate. We are proud of what the group achieved and remain committed to building on this work through further inclusive theatre, storytelling and community-engagement opportunities in Great Yarmouth and the surrounding area.

The Next Stage was made possible thanks to National Lottery players and funding through National Lottery Awards for All. 

The filmed showcase celebrates the creativity, collaboration and commitment of everyone involved in the 38-week programme.

WATCH THE SHOWCASE VIDEO BELOW 👇