OUR APPROACH
“Let us, we and they, create first in the theatre, in fiction, to be better prepared to create it outside afterwards, to extrapolate into our real life.”
Augusto Boal, Games for Actors & Non-Actors
INCLUSIVE ACCESSIBLE COLLABORATIVE
Most people who find their way to Unique Community come from marginalised backgrounds, often having experienced significant trauma or social isolation.
We shape our welcoming community around their unique needs.
The personal stories and experiences of each person are entwined within every aspect of our programs, inspiring creative sessions that centre their perspectives.
We invest in this approach through creating a safe, calm and prepared environment. An Arts Therapist/Wellbeing Officer supports every single one of our sessions.
We celebrate each individual as they are and encourage our community to celebrate each other. No one is left behind.
Our inclusive culture fosters creative exploration. In our small space, our community are empowered to tackle big things and better face the world beyond our walls.
We encourage critical thinking through an empathetic lens. Critical thinking involves seeking, analysing, and evaluating multiple perspectives on a complex question or issue, being able to “see” through someone else's eyes is essential.
Daring new shows are created and staged annually at a professional theatre space, giving our community the platform to share their explorations with a wider audience.
The following year the shows are toured as DYCE workshops to schools across Harrow & Brent - the conversation continues.
We give staff and participants a vocabulary with which to hold themselves and each other accountable through our Values & Ask (below)
VALUES
We believe that truly inclusive performing arts processes should always feel; safe, calm, prepared and fun.
SAFE
Anyone can access our projects without risk of physical or emotional harm.
CALM
Everyone feels included in sessions without physical or emotional distress.
PREPARED
All projects are carefully planned with the participating group in mind.
FUN
Every participant enjoys our sessions and the opportunity to celebrate themselves.
OUR ASK
At the beginning of projects we introduce the four words to staff and participants that underpin the way we work in our sessions. We ask that everyone keep these in mind throughout their work with us.
OPEN
Try new things, talk to new people, speak your thoughts, and let your imagination run wild.
BOLD
Be ready to explore difficult subjects, challenge yourself to consider other perspectives, and be brave enough to speak up when something feels wrong.
KIND
Welcome new people, support and encourage others, and be generous with your ideas.
HOPEFUL
Believe that you have endless opportunities, stand ready to gain new skills, and take everything you learn into the outside world to create a brighter future.
ANNUAL THEMES
Every year we collaborate with participants and the wider community to develop a theme for the artistic year’s season. Themes explore societal challenges our community is facing and are used as a catalyst for making work across all projects. The intention is that through the creative process participants are able to find answers through difficult situations.
To read about the 2023-2024 theme click here.
