Bright Sparks is a youth theatre programme funded through Leitrim County Council's Creative Ireland programme that caters to a broad spectrum of young people aged 10 to 17 years who wish to participate in a youth theatre programme that is delivered at a more relaxed pace that is suited to each individual's needs — young neurodiverse people or those who find the school system tough that have an interest in theatre or performance and a flair for creativity.
Junior and Senior groups
Bright Sparks will consist of two professional youth theatre groups, one for young people aged 10–13 years (5th class to 1st year), and one for young people aged 14–17 years (2nd year to 6th year). The programme develops participants’ creative skills, delivered at the pace of each individual. We promote a culture of respect and empathy to ensure each individual's unique voice is heard.
The programme actively involves and connects individuals to the project by creating opportunities for meaningful interaction and collaboration among members and with leaders. We actively involve participants in the ongoing development of the long-term vision for the programme and in all decision making related to project development and delivery.
Co-designed workshops
We work with highly skilled facilitators to design workshop programmes in collaboration with members catering for the diverse abilities and interests in each group. The project uses different facilitation methodologies and offers a flexible structure within workshops to ensure different learning styles are catered for.
We promote active participation, facilitating brainstorming and group discussions (developing projects, scripts etc.) and allowing for a diverse range of roles to suit all abilities and talents. We aim to create a safe environment where each participant feels comfortable and valued and where everyone is afforded the opportunity to participate based on their individual strengths.
Buddy system
Engendering an inclusive co-dependent learning environment is important to build cohesion and harness the strengths of individual members. Where appropriate, older or more experienced members will be buddied with less experienced members promoting skills transferal and developing confidence for both parties.
For further information, please contact Mary Blake on 071 96 20005 Ext 541 or mary.blake@leitrimcoco.ie
