Atopia: the beginning.
Supported through Punctum Inc’s Seedpod Residency Program, Castlemaine Circus Inc’s first development of the ‘Atopia’ project is underway, with young people and artists coming together over the past two months to test ideas for a new site specific performance work.
‘The aim of the project is to foster a culture of support and inclusion, where everyone contributes to the creating of a new and relevant youth performance work.” Mandy Field, Atopia Project Director.
Over the past 6 weeks, the initial series of workshops has combined circus arts, storytelling, physical and visual theatre, technical design and video making, led by the team of local professional artists.
These workshops will culminate two small public showings on December 12th.
The development of this new, major performance work will continue in 2016 with the team transforming a CBD location in Central Victoria into ‘Atopia - a world with no boundaries…’
"Atopia is developing an exciting new working environment created for young people to explore and investigate performance making techniques." says Sam Thomas, Atopia Musical Director
Punctum’s ICU has been alive with participation and passion where a group of committed and enthusiastic young people are able to experiment and connect, explore and surprise themselves with new ways of creating.
‘The Showing is an opportunity to test some ideas that we have captured with an audience. It will be a glimpse into our developing creative process, that sees young people exploring new ground with the support of a team of artists.’ Mandy Field
"Our dream is to see a regular project space where young people can explore their ideas in a collaborative creative environment supported by professional mentoring artists, targeting young people from the region that are most needing the opportunity to engage." Mandy Field
Workshops have also been held with The Meeting Place Koori Cultural Program at the Yapeen School, and at the Maldon Neighbourhood House’s Young West Program.
This project is supported by Creative Victoria, The Regional Arts Fund, Castlemaine Circus Inc, the Shire of Mount Alexander, Workspace Australia and Capital Theatre and Events.
Sunday December 12th – 2pm and 3.30pm
ICU, 1 Halford St, Castlemaine.
All tickets $5
Showings will run for 30 minutes. Space is limited and the presentation will be intimate so bookings are required.
If you would like to find out more about Atopia contact Mandy Field, Atopia Project Director:
Ph 0401 017 471 or email: mandy@castlemainecircus.com.au
This project is supported by Creative Victoria, The Regional Arts Fund, Castlemaine Circus Inc, the Shire of Mount Alexander, Workspace Australia and Capital Theatre and Events.
Created by Mandy Field, Sam Thomas, Michelle Heaven, Lisa Mills and young people from Castlemaine and surrounding towns
