LET'S GET ACTING
CELEBRATE BULWELL!
GET CREATIVE & HAVE FUN!
If you love theatre and drama, want to tell YOUR story of Bulwell, and want to be part of something fun, friendly and joyful, join Nonsuch Studios for a new, FREE Bulwell Theatre Group this summer!
Over a 10-week period at Bulwell Forest Garden, you will work with our Theatre Director to create and perform a brand new piece of outdoor theatre for Bulwell Forest Garden Harvest Festival celebration in September, that tells the story of the ‘Spirit of Bulwell’ and the magic force of community that connects Bulwell to its past, present and future!
Sessions are open to anyone aged 18+ with a connection to the area (not just residents), and we really welcome everyone, with no previous acting or performance experience needed!
Led by Theatre Facilitator and director Claire Finn, alongside Nonsuch Studios’ team, no matter whether you have never performed before or haven't acted since you were a child, you’ll be guided and supported to create something new and wonderful. So, get on down to Bulwell Forest Garden and get ready to put Bulwell on the Stage!
“I found everyone to be encouraging and supportive which in turn helped me to relax and enjoy myself. It was a non judgmental space which was nice”
“Empowering. Gave me a much needed sense of achievement and confidence”
“It was great doing something different to the ordinary daily things of life”
quotes from Meadows Musical Theatre Performers, a similar Stage the City project
This group is part of Stage the City, a programme led by Nonsuch Studios to discover and celebrate the stories of Nottingham’s community through drama, theatre and performance. This performance will be the first pilot performance for Bulwell, with more opportunities to be involved in larger-scale productions in the near future!
FIND OUT MORE & GET INVOLVED
WHEN: WEDNESDAYS, 1 PM - 3 PM
STARTING 22 JULY- 23 SEPTEMBER
PERFORMANCE: SATURDAY 26 SEPTEMBER
WHERE: BULWELL FOREST GARDENS, AUSTIN STREET, BULWELL, NOTTINGHAM NG6 9HE
COST: SESSIONS ARE FREE (BOOKING REQUIRED)
FAQs
What are we creating?
We will be creating a community-led performance. Inspired by stories of hope, kindness and everyday moments, the installation will reflect the true spirit of Bulwell; a place built on connection, history and heart.
How will we find Bulwell’s story?
In the first few weeks, we will explore Bulwell’s past and present through shared memories, local tales, and community conversations. Everyone is welcome to bring their own stories, ideas or memories, no matter how big or small, to help shape what we create together!
What will each session look like?
Each week will feel a bit like popping round to a neighbour’s for a warm drink and a good chat. We’ll start every session with tea, biscuits, and plenty of time to share memories, stories and moments from Bulwell. We will then gradually explore how these stories can be shaped into an installation.
Across the weeks, we will build a relaxed, welcoming space where you can take part as much or as little as you like. By the end, we’ll bring these shared stories together into an outdoor installation Nottingham Light Night.
Do I need any theatre experience?
Not at all! Our amazing Theatre Director, Laura Ryder, will guide you step by step through the creative process.
When and where are the sessions?
Wednesdays, 1pm – 3pm
Bulwell Forest Gardens, Austin Street, Bulwell, NG6 9HE
Stage the City
Bulwell Community Theatre Making Sessions are part of ‘Stage the City’; an exciting new two-year project in Nottingham by Nonsuch Studios. Thanks to a £150,000 Esmée Fairbairn grant, we're bringing a range of workshops to Bulwell, Sneinton, and The Meadows. Participants of all ages will craft and unleash new performances, sharing their unique stories and experiences from Nottingham. This project connects across communities and generations, culminating in a spectacular outdoor theatre event in Nottingham City Centre in 2027. Get ready for a surge of local creativity and stronger communities!
Theatre Director
You'll be working with the amazing Laura Ryder: Director, Theatre Maker and Facilitator.
Laura is a director, theatre-maker and facilitator based in the Midlands, working across Derby, Nottingham, Birmingham and Sheffield. As a director & associate/assistant director, Laura has worked with Derby Theatre, Nottingham Playhouse, Birmingham REP and Pitlochry Festival Theatre. In 2023, she was the recipient of JMK assistant director bursary at Birmingham REP.
Laura’s work often centres around movement, access and adaptation. She has worked on productions for audiences of multiple ages, from playful children’s theatre to dynamic adaptations for adults. Laura is an experienced facilitator working regularly with young people and learning disabled & neurodivergent adults.
