Here's what our participants have to say...
Arcola’s community companies bring together people from all walks of life – refugees, young creatives, older artists, queer performers, and those with lived experience of mental health challenges. This series shares their stories: how they came to the theatre, what keeps them here and what it means to create something together.
Vedat
Company: Sawa Community Theatre Company / Arcola 50+ Group
Vedat began his journey with the Sawa Community Theatre Company in early 2024, participating in movement classes with Fadi and Mengu. As a migrant, Sawa provided a space for expression and connection, one that led him to join the Arcola 50+ Group, where he continues to grow artistically.
For Vedat, theatre has offered a deep sense of community, fulfilment and belonging. His proudest moment? Being welcomed into the Arcola 50+ Group, a testament to his growth and creative journey.
Harry
Company: Arcola Youth Theatre
Harry joined Arcola Youth Theatre more than three years ago and has since become an integral part of the group. With dreams of working in theatre or film, Arcola has been a place to build acting skills and friendships.
His favourite memory was backstage during his first devised show, a political murder mystery, where he first felt part of the company. Last term, he performed The Three Little Men in the Woods, embracing magic, treachery, and revenge as his final performance with Arcola Youth Theatre before graduating.
Clarisa
Company: Arcola 50+ Group
Clarisa has been a vibrant force in the Arcola 50+ Group since 2013. With early theatre roots in Brazil, she returned to the stage after years working with survivors of trauma, using theatre as a creative and healing outlet.
Through Arcola, she found friendship, love, and a platform to bring her own writing to life, debuting a monologue and later a short comedy. Clarisa’s journey is a testament to how creativity can flourish at any stage of life.
Michelle
Company: Arcola Mental Health Company
Michelle’s connection with the Arcola Mental Health Company began in 2017 and has woven through her life ever since. From performances in Gillett Square to devising poetic pieces with live music, Michelle values the process of creation as much as the final show. Arcola has been a place of healing, where collaboration, storytelling and connection re-energise her.
Atlanta
Company: Arcola Academy
Atlanta joined Arcola Academy in 2023 as a trainee stage manager and blossomed into a mentor, technician and designer. With Arcola as a creative home base, she’s built confidence, expanded her skills, and even landed a production internship on Mean Girls.
Her favourite memories stem from working with children on Find Your Rhythm and Into the Globe, witnessing the joy and impact of theatre in young lives. For Atlanta, Arcola Academy is a place of growth, generosity and genuine connection.