Elders

Drama for Elders

The World of Pantomime

Join us for a fun and free creative journey with Andre Pink, founder and Artistic Director of Dende Collective, in a special program designed for elders!

Each session is crafted to offer a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere where participants can engage in playful activities and explore the enchanting world of pantomime. Whether you're new to drama or have prior experience, this is your chance to delve into a range of drama techniques, including:

  • Mime and movement

  • Character creation

  • Mask work

  • Improvisation

The sessions start with a friendly check-in and gentle physical warm-up, followed by engaging circle games to get everyone moving and connected. We’ll then take a well-deserved tea and biscuit break before diving into the world of pantomime. Together, we’ll explore the joys of theatrical play, with the possibility of a final showcase depending on the group’s interest.

There is no pressure, no prior experience is needed and everyone is welcome whether you want to fully participate or just observe. All activities can be adapted to meet individual needs, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and included.

While the sessions are drop-in, regular attendance will enhance your experience as we work toward a potential end-of-term performance.

Key Details:

Location: Church Street Library, Community Space (downstairs, accessible via lift or stairs). Dates: 26 September – 12 December 2024 (Thursdays, 4:30 – 6:30 PM). No session on Thursday, 31 October. Register Here: Sign Up Form or feel free to drop in at any session.

To explore more about past and ongoing Drama for Elders projects with Westminster Libraries and Dende Collective, click here.

About Andre Pink & Dende Collective

  • A man wearing glasses and a white shirt is smiling at the camera. He is wearing a pink, rudimentary, animal-like mask on his head. In the background, another person, slightly out of focus, is dressed in a costume and a black hat.

    André Pink

    Mask Specialist and Artistic Director of Dende Collective

    Andre Pink is a highly experienced theatre practitioner with over 20 years of experience in theatre-making and community arts. As the Artistic Director of Dende Collective, Andre has been leading drama projects for those aged 60+ through the company’s **Dende Elders project**. Recently, Dende brought the community to life with "The Church Street Masquerade 2024," where participants created and performed with masks around Church Street Market.

Venue

Church Street Library

Church Street Library Community space
www.westminster.gov.uk/leisure-libraries-and-community/libraries/rooms-hire-libraries-and-archives-centre/church-street-library

67 Church St, London NW8 8EU, UK

Church Street Library has one large community space and two private meeting rooms for hire. There are two private meeting rooms, each with one table and three chairs. Prices: There is a large open plan space with a kitchenette. Tables, chairs, a flip chart stand, and a digital projector and screen are available for use.

Partly funded by City of Westminster Charitable Trust and City of Westminster Libraries