Inspired by their own experience of discovering creative movement and performance later in life, the company has created a programme of participatory workshops for older people. These sessions, led by Moving Memory company members and trainees, get people moving in ways that keep them fit, introduce new dance-theatre skills and look at ways participants can put their own movement sequences together. Over time, participants improve balance and flexibility, find they can manage more and become increasingly prepared to experiment – they might even think about making a performance! This is about having fun and feeling free to move. It’s a chance to let go, have a laugh and try something new. No experience is necessary.

Please bring cash or cheque for £30 to first session.

Each session includes:

1: Warm up – which is about learning to move well: posture, alignment of the body, breath technique, stretching, extending movement possibilities and moving freely. We have worked with people of all ages, shapes, sizes and bodies, that sometimes are restricted by stresses, strains, and the things that come with everyday life and being older, all of which is fine – we want to welcome all, and work with individuals, to work with their bodies in a safe and creative way environment. People can choose to push themselves or take time to sit out and observe – whatever fits.

2: Playing and Choreographing: We then do various exercises which are about finding new ways of moving individually and together, and then beginning to play with simple activities to make more complete pieces. The ideas for movements come from participants, from the everyday, from memories, feelings and experiences.

3. Cool down and feedback – a short round up to the session to stretch out and cool down, and give any feedback you want to, or ask questions

What participants say:

“It gives you a happy feeling – we get a nice laugh” “It’s different from a normal exercise class – the creativity comes from something we made” “There’s a lovely feeling of trust between us” “balanced between fun and thoughtfulness” “Absolute lack of feeling judged in any negative way” “(The project) is giving a new lease of life and the encouragement to try new things”