Project Xpedition

Delivered by the Arena Theatre, Wolverhampton, and Flexus Dance Collective, Project Xpedition is an arts management programme for young people (aged 12 – 21 years old) based in Wolverhampton and the Black Country, Telford and Shropshire and Staffordshire who are interested in pursuing a career in the Creative Industries.

Over twelve months, young people will participate in workshops and discussions with creative professionals focused around project co-ordination, event management, marketing and technical roles – such as lighting, sound and design – with Project Xpedition culminating in an annual Arts Event for which the young people will have complete ownership over the design and development.

Alongside this, young people will be instrumental in shaping the offers – including the programming and outreach work – of the Arena Theatre and Flexus Dance Collective, ensuring both organisations remain in touch with an inspiring and influential generation.

Project Xpedition includes:

• Silver Arts Award qualification

•Development of a Creative Industry toolkit

•Design and delivery of a youth led arts event in a professional venue

• Mentoring opportunities from creative professionals

As part of the programme, young people will also receive:

• A reference from creative professionals and CV development

• Complimentary tickets to Arena Theatre performances and events

• Opportunity for work experience with both the Arena Theatre and Flexus Dance Collective

• The chance to work under creative professionals, receiving valuable careers advice and guidance.

If you are interested in applying for the 2023/24 intake of Project Xpedition, please e-mail our Education and Outreach Manager, Sam Fleming on Sam.Fleming@ wlv.ac.uk, to receive an application form.

My name is Verity Dowding, I’m 15 years old and very passionate about the performing arts. I have danced for over 13 years and am currently dancing in Sterran Touring Company. I took part in Project Xpedition in 2022 and became an ambassador for 2023.

What first interested you about Project Xpedition and the Arena Theatre?

I wanted to partake in Project Xpedition because I wanted to experience the theatre in more than a performance role. I wanted to understand what happened backstage and before performances to develop my knowledge of theatre.

What was your favourite element/ workshop from Project Xpedition?

I really enjoyed learning about access. The workshops and practical were extremely fun and learning what the staff do to make the theatre an experience for everybody has opened my eyes to the challenges others take to do something we may take for granted.

What did you learn on Project Xpedition that you didn’t think you would learn?

Going into Project Xpedition, I thought I was only going to be learning about the technical aspect of putting on a show (lighting, set and sound) and while we did learn about this, I have also learned many new skills; working as a team member, time management.

What has been biggest takeaway from Project Xpedition?

Having achieved my Silver Arts Award has further educated me about the hard work and time spent for a creative team to put on a show. Project Xpedition has allowed me to appreciate all elements of theatre and how hard people work to make sure as many people as possible can enjoy the theatre.

What were you most proud of?

It feels so rewarding to be able to say I have put on a show with my team and I am very proud of the work I put into achieving my Silver Arts Award. I am also incredibly proud of how I have developed my confidence

How do you feel you have developed?

I feel that I have developed as a person and learned about how to be a better leader and communicator within my team of pioneers. I have become more confident and adaptable for different situations.

What piece of advice would you give young people wanting to pursue careers in the Creative Industries?

Make sure that you take any opportunities that you are given and try your best to make connections with as many people in the arts, because it opens up many new opportunities! You should never give up what you’re passionate about, even if people tell you that you can’t do something, do it anyway!

What are your ambitions for the future?

To further develop my skills through higher education studying Performing Arts, Dance and Drama at sixth form. I also wish to complete my Gold Arts Awards in the next few years.

Education and Outreach

Grand Arena Youth Theatre

The Grand Arena Youth Theatre is an exciting collaboration between the Arena Theatre and Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, where young people work alongside a professional director to grow and improve their acting and devising skills.

Sessions focus on technique, as well as working towards two performances staged at the Arena Theatre.

Youth Theatre members have the opportunity to participate in specialist workshops with professional touring companies, and attend performances at both theatres each term at a heavily discounted rate.

Weekly rehearsals take place every Monday evening – excluding half-terms and Bank Holidays – here at the Arena Theatre.

Juniors: Ages 9-13

Rehearsals: 6pm – 7:30pm

Performance: July 2024

Seniors: Aged 14-18

Rehearsals: 8pm – 9:30pm

Performance: February 2024

For prices, please contact the Grand Theatre on 01902 322 646.

Grand Arena Youth Theatre