Introduction
The Downe House Performing Arts Department is deeply committed to fostering meaningful engagement with community members of all ages and backgrounds. Through a range of impactful outreach initiatives, we aim to create enriching experiences that not only benefit the wider community but also broaden and deepen our students’ understanding of the world around them.
This brochure provides a comprehensive overview of the opportunities available through our outreach programme, outlining the target audiences and highlighting the skills and values that participants can expect to develop. Each outreach experience will be thoughtfully tailored to meet the specific needs and abilities of participants, creating an environment where creativity can thrive and meaningful connections are nurtured. Our aim is to share the transformative power of the arts while educating, inspiring, and empowering all those involved.
We offer outreach opportunities throughout the year and will endeavour to work around your schedule. Often, we have projects or productions taking place in school that we can incorporate into an outreach experience, so this is something that can be discussed.
We are really excited about the prospect of working with you. To enquire about an outreach project please contact our Head of Extra-Curricular Performing Arts, Mrs Olivia Cadle, cadleo@downehouse.net
Dance
Chair Dancing
Suitable for care home residents
Project duration: 3 sessions across a term
Led by a member of the Downe House dance teaching team alongside dancers from our Dance Company, our Chair Dancing class offers senior citizens a joyful and accessible way to stay active and connected. With all movement carefully adapted to be performed from a seated position, the class promotes physical wellbeing, coordination, and a sense of rhythm—all within a safe and supportive environment. This intergenerational initiative not only brings energy and creativity to participants, but also develops meaningful connections between students and the wider community.
Step into the Spotlight
Suitable for school groups (children aged 8-13)
Projection duration: 2 workshops at a primary or secondary school followed by a visit to Downe House to watch a performance (subject to Downe House production calendar)
‘Step into the Spotlight’ is an inspiring outreach project offering primary and secondary school students the chance to learn and create choreography alongside the choreographer and dancers from a Downe House production. Through interactive workshops, students will develop their dance skills, contribute creatively to selected routines, and see how choreography comes to life on stage. Their journey culminates in a special invitation to attend a live performance of the show at Downe House, followed by an exclusive meet-and-greet with the cast and dancers. It’s a unique opportunity to experience the magic of theatre from rehearsal to curtain call!
Musical Theatre
Magic of the Musicals
Suitable for care home residents and other community groups
Project duration: 1 session, delivered at either Downe House or externally at an organisation/group venue
‘Magic of the Musicals’ is a vibrant outreach performance celebrating the best of musical theatre. Featuring talented Downe House students singing iconic songs from beloved musicals, the showcase is accompanied by engaging narration and professional backing tracks or live accompaniment to bring each number to life. Perfect for care homes and community groups, this session can be experienced in two flexible formats: either come to Downe House for a special visit, or let us bring the magic directly to you. It’s an uplifting and inspiring journey into the world of musical theatre for all ages!
Drama
Storytime Spectacular
Suitable for Early Years education settings (ages 3+), libraries and community groups
Project duration: 1 session delivered externally
‘Storytime Spectacular’ is a delightful outreach offering that brings children’s stories to life through exciting and engaging performances by Downe House students. Designed for young audiences, each session features dynamic readings filled with character voices, movement, and interactive elements that invite children to join in the fun. Whether acting out scenes, responding to questions, or helping bring the story to life, participants are encouraged to use their imagination and creativity throughout. Perfect for schools, libraries, and community groups, this lively experience sparks a love of reading and storytelling in a fun, memorable way.
Performance Penpals
Project duration: Dependant on participants’ availability
‘Performance Penpals’ is an exciting collaborative initiative that connects students from different schools through a shared love of the performing arts. Each student is paired with a "performance penpal" who is also involved in a school production. The buddies meet at the beginning of their respective rehearsal processes to share details about their productions, roles, and creative goals. Throughout the term, they exchange letters, offering encouragement, insights, and reflections on their experiences. The project culminates with each student attending their penpal’s performance, fostering a deeper appreciation for each other's work and strengthening connections across school communities.
Film & Media
Documenting our World
Suitable for secondary and sixth form students, community groups
Project duration: To be determined upon arrangement
‘Documenting Our World’ is a hands-on outreach project that gives participants the exciting opportunity to conceptualise, plan, and create their very own documentary. Guided by our Head of Film and Media and using accessible filming techniques, participants will explore storytelling through a non-fiction lens- choosing a topic that matters to them, conducting interviews, capturing footage, and editing their final piece. Whether shining a light on a local issue, sharing personal stories, or exploring a passion, this project aims to empower voices from every generation and fosters skills in research, creativity, and digital media. This project culminates in a screening of the documentary at Downe House.
