YOUNG actors will enjoy a new partnership promoting arts, culture and heritage in Swindon.

Prime Theatre has teamed up with Steam to offer new projects to children and young people across the town.

The programme will include acting workshops backed by Swindon Borough Council for those aged between five and 18 years old. 

Youngsters will develop their skills with Prime’s new associate director Laura Jasper, while working with objects and costumes.

She said: “Prime offer workshops around all areas of theatre, including acting, technical theatre and scriptwriting, and want to be able to make sure that all of these arts are being supported with Steam.

“Steam Museum provides the perfect backdrop to stimulate imagination and inspiration.

“And Steam is a great place to not only see the past but think about the future, and a clear example of how the world of science and technology works hand in hand with creativity and art.”

Laura, who used to work as an actor in Bath, added: “We will be working on a number of projects, from the performance of plays, to making the world of the museum come further to life with the live and recorded media.

“In a safe environment, young people are encouraged to try new ideas, to grow in confidence, develop their aspirations and work as a team.

“The half term we will be running acting workshops for young people aged 5-18, whereby they will create characters, scenes and perform these to camera and learn how to make their own film.”

Workshops will be held on October 28 and 29 at Steam and cost £10 per half day session.

Laura believes participation in drama and the arts can have a real impact on improving the educational and employment outcomes for young people.

She said: “With the decline of arts education in schools it is now more important than ever that culture, arts and heritage is promoted and maintained.

“As a new resident in Swindon, I have learnt so much about the history of the town through Steam and believe that Swindon’s heritage should continue to be shared and celebrated.”

Museum manager Frances Yeo said: “We have a long history of working with Prime and are thrilled that our mutual commitment to children and their families will now be a more regular offer.

“I can’t wait to see what new performances spring from our exhibitions.”

Deaf participants are welcomed to join this project as all workshops will have British sign language support.

More details are available from Prime Theatre by emailing laura@primetheatre.co.uk or by calling 01 793 614864.