A theatre company originally founded in an unused chicken shed is celebrating its 50th anniversary.
Chickenshed, which was formed in 1974, is now an internationally recognised leader in inclusive theatre, education and outreach.
The north London theatre group provides opportunities for children, young people, and adults from all walks of life and continues to work towards a more tolerant and diverse society through performing arts and education.
Over the past five decades, Chickenshed has showcased more than 2,000 performances and supports 15,000 children and young adults each year.
The theatre has also helped develop 19 independent satellite sheds, with 15 across the UK and four international sheds in Russia, Finland and North America.
To mark its 50th year, Chickenshed will host a Wonder Gala at RIBA London on November 7 and a Hard Rock Gala at Hard Rock Cafe, Piccadilly, on November 13.
A documentary titled Wonder Out of Chaos is set for release in 2025, featuring interviews with ambassadors Simon Callow, Dame Judi Dench, Jamie Demetriou, and Sir Derek Jacobi.
An 800-strong cast will also perform in a Christmas production of "Pan" as part of the anniversary celebrations.
Chickenshed also announced a new heritage project, Echoes, which aims to preserve the stories of those who have contributed to the organisation's past.
The project will culminate in a film documentary capturing the 50-year history and heritage of Chickenshed.
In its 50th year, Chickenshed's outreach programme continues to educate, inspire, and empower individuals of all ages, abilities, and cultural backgrounds.
Michael Bossisse, creative producer - outreach, said: "We cannot change the world by staying in our comfort zone here at the theatre - all young people have a voice that should be heard.
"So, if they cannot come to us, we will go to them. Hard to reach areas are not hard to reach.
"People sometimes avoid these areas because what they have to say is hard to hear.
"We want to hear.
"Our Theatre in Inclusive Education programme is so successful because we do not claim to know all the answers.
"We respect young people’s experiences as a vital part of who they are.
"Their vision changes our vision."
Chickenshed was awarded gold in the Teaching Excellence Framework for Higher Education in 2023, the highest award available.
Paul Morrall, director of education and training, said: "Chickenshed celebrates its 50th year by being named a Centre of Excellence in Inclusive practice.
"All of our students and outreach groups have inspired these developments past, present, and future.
"We consciously seek platforms for our young people to speak from and we do not wait for this to happen by chance.
"Finding voices overlooked by society and giving them platforms to change the world drives our practice.
"Chickenshed will never rest on its laurels and say that we have arrived on our inclusive journey, because there are always individuals for us to inspire and who want to inspire us.
"That is our vision - a never-ending journey to a constantly evolving destination."
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