Atlas Theatre Company: Making Theatre Accessible to All

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Incorporated in 2024 Atlas Theatre Company CIC aims to promote broad engagement and participation in the creative arts, particularly for individuals and families in Sunderland, South Tyneside, and surrounding areas. Our overall goal is to increase accessibility to the arts, especially for those from low socioeconomic backgrounds, and to provide opportunities for people from all walks of life to engage in expressive and performing arts.

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We seek to break down socioeconomic barriers by offering free and low-cost workshops, drama clubs, and masterclasses, ensuring that the arts are available to everyone, regardless of financial circumstance. Our community-driven approach focuses on fostering creativity, social interaction, and skill-building, helping individuals -whether seasoned performers or beginners -develop a range of transferable skills.

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Additionally, we aim to combat isolation by creating social spaces through our diverse programming, which includes youth and family-focused initiatives, such as School Partnerships, Community Company and ‘Little Drama Class’.

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Atlas Theatre Company CIC engage diverse communities providing opportunities for individuals from different walks of life to engage with the creative arts, from seasoned performers to first-time actors, as well as those working with English as a second language. This diversity is key to creating inclusive and meaningful theatre experiences.

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Atlas Theatre Company CIC break down socioeconomic barriers through initiatives like Free Arts week, offering all of our groups and classes for free while our Pay it Forward Scheme supports free drama in schools. (February 2025) 54 children received a free drama class though this scheme.

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Atlas Theatre Company CIC foster creativity and skill development. We have a  focus on equipping participants with transferable skills. Whether individuals are experienced performers or beginners, Atlas ensures they gain valuable knowledge and confidence in the arts. Professional masterclasses with industry professionals further support skill development, offering community members the chance to learn from experts in the field. For our community company members these masterclasses are free, for the rest of the community they come at a small cost to support the facilitation of the event.

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Professional development opportunities - Atlas has a strong track record of securing masterclasses and other professional development opportunities for its members. Thanks to the contacts of one of our CIC directors the last three masterclasses have been gifted to the company by the facilitators, these have included Oli Wearham (Sound Engineer on &Juliet) Lydia Gerrard (Standby Glinda in the West End's Wicked) and Clive Kneller (Wicked Movie 2024) Previously we have had performances attended by Oscar winning Sir Mark Rylance who has also advocated for us and the importance of community theatre! These opportunities not only enhance the skills of participants but also attracts high-quality professionals to collaborate with the company, expanding the learning opportunities available to the wider region.

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We have an experienced and diverse team – Our CIC directors have a wealth of experience and training between them, including but not limited to being qualified teachers, having professional industry experience, undertaking research as part of the National Theatre and Master degree in PR. These skills support the smooth operations of Atlas Theatre Company CIC.

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Atlas Theatre Company CIC has established partnerships with local educational settings, such as Redby Academy, and Seaburn Dene Primary. We have been able to provide free drama through the support of our Pay it forward Scheme sponsored by local business such as The Bridges, SunderlandBID and Stella Projects. We have a strong working relationship with other organisations such as The Play Café, the Art Café and Sunderland BID These partnerships provide valuable resources, that have included funding, and an expanded community network.

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In summary, Atlas Theatre Company CIC has a blend of skilled individuals, supportive partnerships, and a strong community network to deliver its projects effectively and ensure the continued accessibility of the creative arts in the region.

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At Atlas Theatre Company CIC, we are driven by a shared vision of making the creative arts accessible to everyone, regardless of background, age, or experience. Through our diverse programs and community-driven initiatives, we are not only empowering individuals to explore their creative potential, but also fostering a sense of belonging and connection across Sunderland, South Tyneside, and beyond.

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Our commitment to breaking down socioeconomic barriers, combating isolation, and creating opportunities for personal growth through the arts is at the heart of everything we do. By continuing to expand our reach, build new partnerships, and offer innovative programs, we are proud to be contributing to a more inclusive, connected, and creative community.