Our Journey Home: Storytelling project

Jixie Harrison • 17 February 2020

During the course of this storytelling project visually impaired participants will study the art of storytelling as an ensemble. Learning throughout, ways in which to explore, develop and showcase their stories, which will be based on the concept of what home and journeying home means to them.

Group photo at the Met some sat in lounge chairs others standing all smiling

Everyone has a story to tell. Using the format of workshop sessions and rehearsals a group of visually impaired people will tell their own stories to form a project called ‘Our Journey Home.” In their own words each person will tell a story about a journey they have undertaken, either physically, mentally or emotionally. While doing this, participants will explore the art of storytelling in a succinct and enjoyable way both for themselves and the recipient of that story. They will learn about different methods of storytelling, both individually and in a group as an ensemble and how these two methods of working differ.

This project provides a chance for each individual to tell their own story from their own perspective and in their own voices. A multi-background, multi-generational ensemble ensures a variety, a richness and a depth to each story. Along the way participants will each explore their cultural background, their influences, their inspirations and their aspirations. Whilst everyone has their story to tell and will be encouraged to find a sense of self, no one will be isolated or alone in the sharing and telling of their story, which will be told with the support of the ensemble around them, creating a sense of unity.

Throughout the project, workshops will contain guided vocal exercises that enhance performers abilities to project and enunciate. Acting exercises will enhance the participants abilities to improvise, deliver stories and work in a team. Over time these exercises are also used to build confidence. These workshops will be led by trained theatre professionals that specialise in a variety of fields such as vocal coaching, movement and physical theatre, improvisation and character development.

These workshops will culminate in a production held at the Met Theatre in Bury.

This project has been made possible through funding from the National Lottery Community Fund and the Bury Cultural Champions Fund.

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