THE STORK PROJECT
Empowering migrants through the transformative power of performing arts.
The Stork Project harnesses the power of performing arts to help migrants navigate the challenges of adjusting to life in a new country. By bringing people together to work towards a shared goal, the project fosters a sense of belonging, connection, and hope within the community.
The project is divided into three key areas:
Theatre Company
A performance group that creates an original musical, culminating in a professional stage production. This group, formed through word-of-mouth, referrals, and specific show needs, is open to everyone who wants to participate.
Children & Young People
Workshops and trips designed to connect children and young people from Ukraine. Currently, this initiative is funded to specifically support Ukrainian children and young people living in Harrow, London.
Community Workshops
Delivered through outreach, these sessions are open to anyone and are run in collaboration with partner organisations, bringing the performing arts to diverse community groups.
“We have become almost like a real big family! Now I don’t feel isolated, lonely and helpless as before, I know that I have true friends in good and bad. And theatrical collaborations are simply priceless! They help you appreciate and understand the people around you and yourself.”
Stork Project Participant, 2024
THEATRE COMPANY
Our migrant theatre company welcomes adults and families eager to create and perform together. Open to all generations, we embrace cross-generational collaboration, fostering a space where people of all ages can come together and inspire one another.
Each year, the group embarks on an exciting journey to create an original musical, culminating in a performance on a professional London stage.
The creative process unfolds in three dynamic stages:
STAGE ONE: Workshops
Led by theatre professionals, these workshops develop the group’s theatrical skills and spark the initial ideas for the production. Participants are invited to share their personal stories and experiences, helping shape the new show.
STAGE TWO: Script and Score Creation
A scriptwriter takes the ideas generated in workshops and crafts the original script. The cast works closely with the writer to refine the story until everyone is satisfied. A musical director then composes an original score for the production.
STAGE THREE: Rehearsals and Performance:
The group moves into rehearsals, preparing to bring their musical to life on stage.
Throughout the process, participants are supported by a dedicated wellbeing officer (trained therapist), ensuring a nurturing environment where mental health is always a priority.
Want to join?
COMPLETE THIS APPLICATION FORM
"This is one of the most powerful plays I’ve ever seen. It gave astute insights into the emotional experiences of Ukrainians of different ages who have fled the war. Despite the raw sadness, humour was never far beneath the surface. The link with Afghans, in another of the world’s “waiting rooms” was extremely effective and made universal the human response to war..”
Audience Member Feedback, Wandsworth Arts Fringe Festival, June 2024
CHILDREN &
YOUNG PEOPLE
The young people’s program is a series of free performing arts masterclasses and trips. The program is free for migrant Ukrainian children and young people based in Harrow.
A wellbeing officer and support staff work across the program. Both Ukrainian and Russian speakers are available to support with language barriers.
TRIPS AUTUMN TERM SCHEDULE:
31/10/ 2024 - Science Museum & Lunch
24/11/2024 - London Zoo
19/01/2025 - Kew Gardens
18/02/2025 - Westminster - Greenwich boat ride
02/03/2025 - Bowling
APRIL 2025 - Theatre Trip & Residential (Final Dates TBC)
MASTERCLASSES AUTUMN SCHEDULE:
30/10/2024 - DESIGN & SHADOW PUPPETRY with Phyllida Hickish
6/11/2024 - DANCE & MOVEMENT with Hannah Brennan
13/11/2024 - COMMUNITY THEATRE with Maya Shimmin
20/11/2024 - THEATRE FOR CHANGE with Becci Perris
27/11/2024 & 4/12/2024 - DRUMMING & SINGING with Alex Talbot
11/12/2024 - DRAMATIC COLLAGE with Ben Wilson
Want to join?
COMPLETE THIS APPLICATION FORM
COMMUNITY
WORKSHOPS
We offer tailored performing arts workshops for local migrant community groups, designed to meet the specific needs of our partner organizations. Our workshops are inclusive and suitable for all age groups, fostering creativity and collaboration.
Participants can enjoy a diverse range of activities, including drama and acting, music and singing, art and design, as well as dance and movement. Join us to explore your artistic talents and connect with others in the community!
Want to book a workshop?
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“Thanks to my interaction with the project participants and, of course, the organisers, I radically changed my worldview and became who I am now.”
Stork Project Participant, 2024