Fuel Theatre

Education

Gecko’s co-artistic directors Al Nedjari and Amit Lahav say:

"Education work affirms or confirms what we are doing as a company, the way we are working and our aims. It reminds us of what we are interested in and focuses the company on our original aims, particularly the physicality of performance. It helps us clarify the processes, practices and style of our work. It is also an exploration of our working methodologies, and informs the way we work in the future. Occasionally it helps by sparking an idea which may appear elsewhere in a different form in the future, ideas which will surface in other work. It leaves avenues of interest floating which may become a point of exploration for the company.

We are led by our participants to explore processes. When you watch the creativity in participants, you realise it is not just about making shows but that we are exploring the metaphors of their lives. The process is an exploration of themselves, their potential and the expression of their ideas - and that process can be life changing."

Workshops

There are a number of ways Gecko can get involved with young people through schools, youth and community groups. Gecko…

…run bespoke residencies or series of workshops for GCSE, BTEC, A-Level and undergraduate students about devising and performing physically. We also work with young people outside of formal education environments – for example, we recently worked with a group of 14-17 year olds at The Study Gallery in Poole on a half term project investigating the concept of ‘identity’.

…provide tailor made INSET days for Drama and Performing Arts teachers of all levels. We are in the process of setting up INSET networks in a number of regions, allowing clusters of schools to attend tailor-made training days at affordable prices. Schools that wish to host INSET days at their premises can also benefit from further discounts.

…schedule regular professional development workshops for performing arts practitioners, where individuals can learn about the Gecko devising process, and contribute to the company’s creative development too.

In 2005, Gecko were commissioned by Plymouth Theatre Royal to create a community project involving over 200 participants of all ages focussing on biology and art, a project supported by the Wellcome Trust. To see a trailer of the resulting performance, click here. In 2006, Gecko completed a residency at Battersea Technology College in London.

Other schools and organisations that Gecko has worked with include Maynard Leigh, BAC’s Young People’s Theatre group, Hinckley College, Goldsmiths University, London Metropolitan University, WAVE Arts Development Agency, Thurston College and Blackheath High School.

Downloads

Click here to download a Gecko Education Pack.

For more information, prices and to book for any of the above, please contact Shonagh at Fuel on info@fueltheatre.com or call 0207 228 6688. We are always interested in hearing about ideas for new projects as well, so do approach us with your proposals.