Brixton House Unveils Free Community Arts Programme for Local Residents
A new free community arts programme has officially launched at Brixton House, offering a wide range of creative workshops, technical training, and arts sessions specifically designed for local residents. This initiative is supported by a substantial £10,000 grant from L&Q’s community grants programme, which forms part of a larger investment totalling £16,742. The primary goal of the programme is to provide young people with a solid foundation for exploring potential careers within the creative industry.
Focus on Inclusivity and Community Engagement
The programme places a particular emphasis on individuals who may not otherwise have access to such opportunities, while also celebrating the rich stories, memories, and experiences that define Brixton’s vibrant local community. Expert facilitators, art practitioners, associate companies, and show producers—many of whom hail from Lambeth and share backgrounds similar to the local community—will lead a series of hands-on workshops, training sessions, and creative activities.
Participants will have the unique chance to learn directly from industry experts and utilise professional media studios as an integral part of the scheme. They will explore a diverse array of disciplines, including music production, podcasting, poetry, arts and crafts, and digital media. Importantly, all sessions are completely free to access, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder participation.
Bridging the Gap in Creative Careers
This initiative aims to inspire young people to learn more about the creative industries and find their place within them. Government-commissioned research highlights a significant gap: while nearly one in three (31 per cent) young people aged 11–18 express an interest in pursuing a creative career path, almost half (49 per cent) do not know what skills or qualifications are needed to get started. Through practical experience and direct access to industry professionals, the programme seeks to bridge this gap and support young people in developing their creative voices.
Utilising State-of-the-Art Facilities
Brixton House is a fully accessible theatre located in the heart of the community, featuring a house studio, performance spaces, a café, bar, and outdoor public areas. The programme will make full use of these facilities, ensuring that people of all ages and abilities can participate in a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Programme Highlights and Key Activities
The programme includes several key components designed to cater to different age groups and interests:
- Family Creative Days: Ten intergenerational creative activity days will be delivered during the May and February half terms, as well as in August during the summer holidays.
- Young People’s Creative Training: Twelve places are available for young people aged 14-25 seeking technical training and tailored work experience. The Easter programme covers music production, digital technology, podcasting, and marketing communications. These sessions will be hosted in Brixton House’s media suite and studio spaces, which are equipped with state-of-the-art technical equipment and supported by subject-matter experts and role models from the music industry.
- Creative Wellbeing Sessions for Older Residents: Four creative wellbeing taster sessions are offered for people aged 65 and above, with thirty places available. Running from June to July between 11am and 2pm, these sessions are designed to reduce isolation and promote wellbeing by keeping minds and bodies active. Activities will include poetry, cultural reminiscence, storytelling, movement, arts and crafts, music, and mindfulness, alongside opportunities for befriending and peer support.
Successful Launch Event and Community Support
The programme kicked off on February 17 with a fun-filled afternoon featuring arts and crafts, dancing, drumming, and costume design activities for children and families. The event was well-attended by members of the local community, including residents from L&Q.
Aisha Chaudhry, Community Development Lead at L&Q, commented: “Brixton is a place where diversity, creativity, and innovation thrive. As a social landlord invested in our communities, we support local groups to deliver activities that improve residents’ life chances and wellbeing. Access to the creative industries often comes down to who you know. The real-world cost is lost potential: untold stories, unrealised careers, and under-represented voices. Brixton House’s new programme opens doors for aspiring creatives to build connections and develop their skills in a supportive environment, close to home.”
How to Get Involved
For anyone interested in participating in the programme, further information can be obtained by emailing community@brixtonhouse.co.uk or calling 020 7820 7266. The programme is based at Brixton House, located in the heart of the community.
