Being involved in the 'Ages and Stages' project - by Becky Salt

Getting involved with the 'Ages and Stages' project has given me an insight into the history of the New Vic Theatre and how it has positively influenced valued members of our community. Not only have I learnt about how the different departments within the theatre have developed over time but I have also met some inspirational people of the older generation that I have learnt great amounts from.

Through participating within the workshops, I have had the opportunity to contribute my ideas and beliefs about the topic 'Perceptions of Age',  whilst also revealing innovative thoughts of how the final documentary performance could be produced. 

By creatively re-enacting people's memories it has enabled me to understand how greatly the New Vic has impacted the public and how in time they have developed their style of productions. Having the chance to work with people from both generations for some time now, I have been able to build strong relationships and make valuable friendships that I hope will last for some time to come. There are various different personalities and interests within the group however, we all share one common passion, of the theatre and the all-important connection with the New Vic. 

On a weekly basis, being involved with the 'Ages and Stages' project is something I thoroughly enjoy and look forward to. I have encountered new knowledge and have learnt new skills and qualities about myself. 

Becky Salt - member of the 'Ages and Stages' performance group 

'Theatre is good for you' - by Michael Lewis

It's official – going to the theatre is good for you. Michael Boyd in his reinstatement of his brief for the design of New Shakespeare Theatre writing of these distinctive qualities - “No other art form addresses our humanity with the full human presence in the way that theatre can: the actual presence of the body and spirit of the person, shared in the same space through real time with an audience breathing the same air. …” (pg 25 The Guthrie Thrust Stage: A Living Legacy). He goes on to say that the closer you can get a large audience to the performing area, sharing the private emotional detail as well as the inspiring epic, the better. A consensual exploration of our common humanity! That is is what's good for us.

At the New Vic we have the tremendous success of Alice in Wonderland. An interpretation of a story that has a wide influence delightfully for all ages. A creative expression of a concentrated team effort – take-away magic made by people. The interpretation reflected the age it was written in and the issues then of poverty and ignorance. It seems like a good tonic in these uncertain times to be reminded that creative ingenuity by people is the way forward rather than depending on systems.

See you down at the Vic – if not I shall want to know why.

By Michael Lewis - member of the 'Ages and Stages' performance group 

Taking part in the Ages and Stages workshops

I am one of the older members of the Ages and Stages group. The New Vic gave me a new lease of life after retirement. It could do the same for you!

Judy - member of the 'Ages and Stages' performance group