Urban Voice Limited

ALL THINGS DANCE!

2011-02-11T10:50:00.000Z

The History of Dance – A Multi-Media Film Project

A dance project with a difference!

Walsall YOF have funded this fantastic project that will give young people in Walsall a chance to delve deeper than deep into the History of Dance and create a super multi-media film fusing photogrpahy, creative writing and movement to create a a resource that captures their experiences and shares their new found knowledge.

The project will explore dance styles and genres through a range of periods from across the world!

"From Jazz to Ballroom; Belly Dance to Street!"

We’d like to explore how dance has influenced people’s lives throughout the ages and how it has a huge place in nearly every culture across the globe. No matter what colour, creed, religion or race – DANCE touches peoples’ lives!

If you're interested in getting involved or you'd like to find out more - get in touch! We'd love to hear from you! Call us on 01902 307000!

UV appointed ARTISTIC DIRECTORS of Spectacular New Production!

2011-02-02T15:31:00.000Z

Urban Voice have beaten off stiff competition to secure a fantastic new performance project!

We'll be providing a team of artists to help Bishops Castle School create a SPECTACULAR whole School performance as part of their Creative Partnership programme.

We'll be using the creative process to find out how it can enhance the schools creative curriculum and broaden learners' and teachers' horizons!

We will be responsible for planning, managing and delivering all aspects of the project!

We're absolutely thrilled to have got this one!!!! It's gonna be huge - so keep an eye out for updates soon!

Bentley Drive Victorian Project

2011-02-02T15:20:00.000Z

BENTLEY DRIVE SCHOOL - CREATIVE PARTNERSHIPS PROJECT!

Urban Voice has been selected to deliver an exciting new Creative Partnership Project in Bentley Drive School, Walsall!

We'll be digging deep to help pupils unearth a wealth of new knowledge about the Victorians whilst developing pupils' abilities in a range of writing styles that explore life in the past!

Pupils will develop their writing skills through a range of creative 'bites' including actors-in-role, visual artists and wacky writers!

The end result? An educational resource that will be a fantastic keep-sake for participants, but that can be used by teachers and pupils in years to come! It'll be fun, comical, informative and visually inspiring!!!

Can't wait to get started!! Watch this space as we share our work throughout the creative process!

MAJOR NEW Dudley Schools SRE Project

2011-02-02T15:05:00.000Z

We've got some news..... and it's BIG!!!!

MAJOR NEW PROJECT WITH DUDLEY NHS THROUGH PRAXIS ARTS INTO HEALTH!

Urban Voice have been selected to dleiver an SRE project across Dudley Secondary Schools!

The project will see Urban Voice using a range of art forms to work with pupils to develop creative resources to compliment the existing Dudley Schools SRE Toolkit.

Currently in the planning phase, the project will take place during the Summer Term with the brand new resources launched in the Autumn of 2011!

We'll be posting lots of updates - so keep watching for more info!

Half Term Holiday Scheme @ Arena Theatre!

2011-01-28T13:57:00.000Z

HALF TERM HAVOC!!!!!

We’re doing a show and you could play a part!

It’ll be the most tremendous fun right from the start!

So if you’re aged between 7 and 13 come join in, be part of our team.

Singing, dancing, drama galore – you’ll love it so much you’ll be begging for more!

So give us a ring and don’t miss out....

It’ll be the best half tem without a doubt!!!!

Come along and join us at The Arena Theatre, Wolverhampton for 5 action packed, fun filled days!

Places are £100 per child for the whole week with discounts for siblings.

The week will end with a spectacular performance on Friday 25^th February at 3pm!

Director, Karl Veltman says, ‘We promise a most marvellous week, where you be given the chance to have a go at storytelling, dancing , writing your own songs and creating an entire cast of weird and wonderful characters!”

Hurry to book your place by calling the Box Office on 01902 321321 or book online through the website www.arenatheatre.info

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe Photographs

2011-01-12T16:07:00.000Z

15th - 19th December 2010 Screaminvoiceyouththeatre performed "The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe" at the Arena Theatre in Wolverhampton and a what a success it was!

Why not see for yourselves!
Below are some photographs taken through out the week!

Looks wonderful doesn't it?!?

If you are interested in seeing this show then don't forget that we are performing it again this January.
22nd - 23rd January 2010.
2.00 o'clock showing and a 7.30 showing on both of those dates.
Give the Arena Theatre Box Office a call to book your tickets now.
01902 321321

Half Term Horrors . . .

2011-01-12T15:50:00.000Z

So it's half term and what are you gonna do? Sit there rolling bogeys until they are ready to chew?

Well we say BOO and we say HISS, Come to the Arena - This you must not miss!

We are doing a show and you could play a part, it'll be the most tremendous fun right from the start.

So if you're aged between 7 and 13 come join in, be part of our team.

Singing, dancing, drama galore - You'll love it so much , you'll be begging for more!

So give us a ring and don't miss out, it'll be the best half term without a doubt!!!

£100 per child for the whole week! Extra discounts for siblings.
Performance at 3pm on Friday 25th February!

Drop us an email if you wish to come along. It would be super to see you there!

enquiries@urbanvoice.co.uk

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe UPDATE!

2011-01-06T11:53:00.004Z

THE SNOW MUST GO ON!

As you are all aware on the 18th and the 19th of December 2010, Screaminvoiceyouththeatre were due to do 2 performances of "The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe. However the snow sure put a stop to that and un-fortunatley we had to cancel those shows. It wasn't the best way to end a run in a Theatre but it really couldn't be helped as safety had to be put first.

But . . . GOOD NEWS! We are to perform again! Very soon in fact!

On the 22nd and the 23rd of January 2011 Screaminvoiceyouththeatre will be performing "The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe" at the Arena Theatre. There will be a 2.30pm showing and a 7.00pm showing on both of those dates.

The snow has not stopped them!

Why not come and show your support by purchasing a ticket to watch this stunning piece of theatre. The cast have worked unbelievably hard and gained great success with their first 5 performances back in December 2010, with some audience members coming back a second and a third time to watch it!

Now if that's not a thumbs up, I'm not sure what is!

Come and see for yourselves. It's well worth it!

If you wish to book tickets or you have a query regarding tickets already purchased for this show, please call "The Arena Theatre Box Office" on the following:

01902 321 321

Screaminvoiceyouththeatre

2010-11-18T13:41:00.002Z

This Saturday the following characters are expected to attend a rehearsal at Poole Hayes School. 10.00am - 1.00pm

*Susan
*Peter
*Edmund
*Lucy
*White Witch
*Grumpskin
*Mr Beaver
*2 White Reindeer

We will be looking at scenes 9, 10, 11 and 13! Please try and have a read through of those scenes so that you are familiar with the lines.

See you there!

The BOOKMARK THEATRE Club!

2010-11-15T09:54:00.009Z

The BOOKMARK THEATRE, Bloxwich

Do you remember Bloxwich Library Theatre? Do you remember what a dull, dark, damp space it had become? Well there's been some exciting changes at the theatre over the past year!

2009 saw the Theatre begins it's transformation after winning a grant from the Big Lottery Fund and this Autumn saw the launch of the brand new BOOKMARK THEATRE!

In fact it was definitely a place to visit last Saturday! Urban Voice Arts Worker, Jessica Harper ran the very first THEATRE CLUB for the Young People of Bloxwich!

The club ran from 10.00am - 1.00pm and had 25 young people participating in a session that was fast, fun and informative! They even had a piece to perform to their parents at the end of the session!

As well as performing - young people had a chance to work backstage - operating the lights and sound!

Was it a success?!? OH YES!

What a wonderful 3 hours jam packed with learning and creativity. We're hoping the THEATRE CLUB can become a permanant fixture at the new venue - so watch this space!

Jessica Harper our Arts worker said:

"The Bloxwich Library Theatre Club went really well. I was really pleased with the final performance and thought that the young people displayed bags of confidence and talent. I was shocked by how well the group bonded and worked together. There was a real positive attitude resulting in a very productive morning. I hope I get to work with the group again in the future to create a performance over a longer period. Saturday morning was definitely a thumbs up!"

If you're interested in getting involved with the THEATRE CLUB or finding out more abobut this fantastic new venue, call Karl Veltman on 01902 307000.

Here is a link to the story in "The Bloxidge Tallgraph" :-
http://www.thebloxidgetallygraph.com/theatrefunatbloxwich.htm

Screaminvoiceyouththeatre members

2010-11-08T12:17:00.002Z

This is a post for all members of Screaminvoiceyouththeatre.

This Wednesday (10 November) the time for rehearsal is as follows:

Juniors: 5.30pm - 7.30pm

Seniors: 7.30pm - 9.00pm

ALL principles: 6.00pm - 9.00pm

If for whatever reason you cannot attend this Wednesdays rehearsal please let us know ASAP!

ALL new members of Screaminvoiceyouththeatre must have their subs paid this week in order to recieve scripts and soundtracks.

Please pass on the above information to members that may not have access to a computer.

Many thanks! See you on Wednesday Narnians!

Carboard boxes URGENTLY needed!

2010-11-08T11:53:00.002Z

Do you have any of these lying around?

CARDBOARD BOXES!?!

Our youth theatre (Screaminvoiceyouththeatre) are in desperate need of cardboard boxes of all shapes and sizes, from little ones to the HUGE ones. We need them all!

We will be using them to build our set for "The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe." So we need an awful lot (as you can imagine.)

If you do have cardboard boxes lying around and don't quite know what to with them . . . Throw them our way!

They would be very much appreciated!

Please let us know. Many thanks!

Screaminvoiceyouththeatre

2010-11-02T11:53:00.002Z

This is a post for all members of Screaminvoiceyouththeatre.

This Wednesday (03 November) the time for rehearsal is as follows:

Juniors: 5.30pm - 7.30pm

Seniors: 7.30pm - 9.00pm

ALL principles: 6.00pm - 9.00pm

If for whatever reason you cannot attend this Wednesdays rehearsal please let us know ASAP!

Also ... There are a number of you with outstanding subs. If this is you, please have them paid this Wednesday.
You will NOT be issued with your script if your subs have not been paid.

Please pass on the above information to members that may not have access to a computer.

Many thanks! See you on Wednesday Narnians!

UV land TAMHS Project in Walsall Schools!

2010-10-26T11:36:00.006+01:00

Urban Voice Limited is delighted to have been appointed as the artistic team for an exciting new Creative Arts Project in two Walsall schools!

The project will see Urban Voice workers creatively design, develop and deliver a performing arts project for 100 pupils, 30 in Year 6 at St. James Primary School & 70 in Year 7 at Shire Oak Science College.

The project is part of the TAMHS (Targeted Mental Health in Schools) programme of work in Walsall. The aim of this project nationally is to transform the way that mental health support is delivered to children aged 5-13, to improve their mental wellbeing and tackle problems more quickly.

The project will also incorporate the New Economics Five Ways to Wellbeing themes as well as building on the work of the National Healthy Schools Programme and Social and Emotional Aspects of Learning Programme (SEAL) in Walsall Schools.

The pupils will work over a series of one-day workshops to develop a performance that will take place in early December. Following this, the project will enter a consultation and design stage as we work with pupils to develop a creative resource promoting the five ways to wellbeing and exploring the theme of transition.

We'll be posting more information about the project as it develops! If you'd like to find out more about Urban Voice Limited and the work we do - please contact us by emailing enquiries@urbanvoice.co.uk or telephone (01902) 307000.

Screaminvoiceyouththeatre Half Term Rehearsal

2010-10-26T10:52:00.002+01:00

All members of Screaminvoiceyouththeatre are required for Wednesdays half term rehearsal!

The rehearsal is at Pool Hayes School Willenhall, 10.00am - 4.00pm!

You are all required!

Please bring lunch, snacks and drinks with you.

If you have any problems regarding this weeks half term rehearsal please call us ASAP!

Thank you. See you Wednesday!

P.S Wednesday is when you will be issued with your scripts and soundtracks. So if there are any outstanding subs please have them paid this week.

Screaminvoiceyouththeatre

2010-10-11T12:59:00.001+01:00

We send our apologies out to all members of Screaminvoiceyouththeatre for the cancellation of last weeks rehearsal.

Sorry!

This weeks rehearsal is as follows:

Juniors - 5.30pm - 7.00pm
Seniors - 7.00pm - 9.00pm
Principles - 6.00pm - 9.00pm

See you all on Wednesday!

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe Cast List!

2010-10-05T12:53:00.003+01:00

How very exciting!

Below is the cast list for The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe!

Lucy - Sarah Millward
Edmund - Matthew Cooper
Peter - Mitchell Smallman
Susan - Grace Harvey
Aslan - Andrew Ridal
The White Witch - Abi Wisdom
Mr Tumnus - Jacob Jones
Mr Beaver - Joshua Pullinger
Mrs Beaver - Leigh Hayward
Air Raid Warden - Paige Walker
Railway Porter - Mark Gibbons
Mrs Macready - Sophie Hewson
Ivy - Danni Walker
Margaret - April Kryzynski
Betty - Sarah Kolonja
2 White Reindeer - Chloe Freeman-Chick + Chloe Blakemore
Grumpskin - Rob Millward
Mangrim - Chanel McKenzie
Rumbebuffin - Ashley Tullock

Congratulations to you all!

Rehearsals this week are as follows:

Juniors - 5.30pm - 7.00pm
Seniors - 7.00pm - 9.00pm
Principles - 6.00pm - 9.00pm

See you all on Wednesday!

All those with outstanding subs and membership/medical forms MUST bring them this Wednesday!

Press Release 28.09.10

2010-09-28T13:26:00.001+01:00

Urban Voice Limited celebrates 10 years of CREATIVITY!

Urban Voice Limited, a Wolverhampton based Educational Production Company, is celebrating 10 years in business this year!

The company are dedicated to using the performing arts and new media to educate, entertain and inform. They endeavour to provide a broad spectrum of work and have forged a reputation built on professionalism and quality. The company’s work sees an experienced team of local creative arts professionals developing performing arts based programmes for a wide range of organisations. These include facilitating community projects, developing youth theatre, special projects for schools and touring new and innovative productions.

Although now an established name in their field, legend has it that the company began on the back of a beer mat in the city centre Varsity bar!

Karl Veltman, company co-director recalls, ‘We were final year drama students who were about to graduate – and we were talking about what to do next – so we started doodling…… the rest they say, is history!’

Over the years the company has gone from strength to strength and has worked with thousands of young people in Wolverhampton, Walsall, Dudley and the surrounding areas! The company are proud of their connection to the university and for the past five years have worked in partnership with the Arena Theatre to present a festive youth production.

Nicola Byrne says, ‘It’s great to give budding young talent the opportunity to perform in such a fantastic venue! Over the years we’ve seen many of the young people we’ve worked with go on to forge their own careers within the creative industries and that’s something we’re incredibly proud of.’

The company is also pleased to have employed many local artists to deliver creative workshops in visual arts, dance, drama, music, film and new media.

Speaking from the company’s Park Lane base in Wolverhampton, the pair said they were also extremely happy to be celebrating ten years - without receiving any direct arts funding. Nicola said, ‘It’s a great testament to the quality and value of our work that we have sustained ourselves for 10 years through sheer hard work, dedication, commitment and a fierce professionalism.’

The company is celebrating its 10^th birthday with a promotional offer to primary schools! Karl Veltman announced, ‘We’re 10 years old – so we’d like to say thank you to the teachers and schools we’ve worked with by knocking 10% off the price of our primary school packages!’

To request a Primary School Programme Information Brochure or for more information call Karl Veltman on 07971 216850 or visit Urban Voice at their website address www.urbanvoice.co.uk

ENDS

Notes to Editors

1. Karl Veltman and Nicola Byrne are available for interview. Please call 07971 216850.

2. For further information on the company and the work they do, please visit www.urbanvoice.co.uk

screaminvoice rehearsal times for Wednesday 29th September

2010-09-27T18:38:00.000+01:00

Rehearsal times this week will be as follows:

6.30pm - 8.30pm Full Company

We will announce the cast at this week's rehearsal.

From the following week, we will be splitting the company into a junior and senior ensemble. Both groups will rehearse at seperate times, but will come together for certain rehearsals throughout the rehearsal period. We will confirm which group each member is part of this and future rehearsal times this wednesday.

Kind Regards

The Production Team
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The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe song lyrics!

2010-09-27T11:19:00.004+01:00

Screaminvoiceyouththeatre members this post is for you!

Below are the lyrics for the songs you learnt at last weeks rehearsal. There is no excuse to not know them folks!

Get learning! :-)

Song 1:- Come To The Table

All who love living
come to the table.
All who love loving
come to the table.
All who love Aslan
come to the table.
There's plenty of room
At the table for all.

Centaurs and Dryads
come to the table.
Eagles and Naiads
come to the table.
Unicorns, Minotaurs
come to the table.
There's plenty of room
at the table for all.

Peter and Susan
come to the table.
Lucy and Beavers
come to the table.
All who love Aslan
come to the table.
There's plenty of room
at the table for all.

Song 2:- Long Live (Finale)

Long live the mountains.
Long live the forests
where Unicorns wander.
Centaurs run free.
Long live the valleys
and hills of Narnia.
And long live the sky.
And long live the sea.

Long live the Satyrs.
The mice and the Leopards.
Long live the foxes,
squirrels and deer.
Long live the Giant,
brave Rumblebuffin.
Long live Father Christmas
so full of good cheer.

Long live the Beaver
jolly and generous.
And Mrs Beaver
kindly and mild.
Long live our good friend,
Dear Mr Tumnus.
And long live the lion.
Who blesses each child.

Long live the children
and the professor.
Long live adventures
and hearts so true.
Long live the music,
long live the magic
and long live the land
of Narnia too.

The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe Cast Announcement!

2010-09-26T11:14:00.000+01:00

This is just a quick post for all those that are members of Screaminvoiceyouththeatre.

You will be pleased to know that the cast will be announced this Wednesday!

See you all on Wednesday evening! :-)

Filming in an Elevator!

2010-09-25T09:11:00.000+01:00

We're just about to start filming in an elevator at The New Art Gallery, Walsall!

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screaminvoiceyouththeatre's Rehearsal

2010-09-20T10:15:00.009+01:00

We are aware that principle auditions took place last Wednesday and you are all itching to find out the cast! However, we still have a few more auditions to see this Wednesday and due to this, the cast will not be announced until the following week.

For ALL those that have already auditioned to be part of the company and/or for a principal role, we will hold a joint rehearsal of juniors and seniors from 6.30pm - 8.30pm in The Drama Studio @ Pool Hayes. Please remember to bring your £15.oo show subscriptions and £5.00 script fee. (All monies in cash please)

If you have any queries, questions or concerns - please call us on 07971 216850.

If you have not auditioned to be in the company or for a principle role yet and wish to, this week is your last chance to do so. You will need to be in The Drama Studio @ Pool Hayes Arts & Community School, Willenhall on Wednesday 23rd September at 5.30pm ready to begin. If successful, you will be expected to stay for our first company rehearsal which runs from 6.30pm - 8.30pm. You will also be required to bring your £15.oo show subscriptions and £5.00 script fee the following week. (All monies in cash please)

A script will be provided on Wednesday for those auditioning to be in the company. However, if you wish to audition for a principal role, you will need to be a little more prepared.

An audition pack has been provided for you. Please follow this link!

http://urbanvoicelimited.blogspot.com/2010/09/audition-pack-lion-witch-wardrobe.html

To audition on Wednesday you need to do the following:-

- Download the audition pack.
- Choose the part you wish to audition for.
- Learn your lines.
- Learn a song of your choice and bring either a backing track, ipod, CD or sheet music along with you on Wednesday.

Best of luck guys!

We look forward to seeing you on Wednesday!

The Production Team

AUDITION PACK - The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe

2010-09-11T10:59:00.002+01:00

You should see the audition pack appear as a PDF file below. Download it, print it and get learning!

Don't forget - choose ONE part to audition for and make sure you message us through our CONTACT form to let us know!

REMEMBER TO INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS SO WE CAN MESSAGE YOU WITH AN INDIVIDUAL AUDITION TIME!

The Lion_ The Witch and The Wardrobe AUDITION PACK

Apologies for the delay in posting Principal Audition info

2010-09-10T20:55:00.001+01:00

We apologise for not posting the principal audition parts as promised.

We were delayed this afternoon and so audition parts will be posted at some point tomorrow.

Once again, if you know anyone who wanted to audition last weds but couldn't make it, or anyone who is yet to audition but would like to - please ask them to contact us asap.

Regards

Karl
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Audition Results

2010-09-09T12:58:00.004+01:00

Thank you to everyone who attended last night's auditions to become members of the company for our forthcoming production of 'The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe'.

The standard of auditions was very good - with certain individuals showing some real potential. We're looking forward to getting started on what promises to be a truly magical show!

If your name is listed below, please check back on the website tomorrow. We hope that by 5pm tomorrow, we will have posted up all the relevant information for the prinicpal audition parts.

Principal Auditions will take place on Wednesday 15th September. Once you have read the audition pack, you will need to notify us via our contact page of which part you intend to audition for. We will then reply with an individual audition time.

We still have room for some more members - so if you know anyone who wishes to join - please ask them to contact us asap so that we can arrange suitable audition times with them.

Also - don't forget to start booking tickets! Visit the Arena Theatre website to book online! http://www.arena.wlv.ac.uk/Autumn_2010.htm

The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe Company List:

Louise	Arnold
Gill	Bate
Chloe	Blakemore
Emily	Brookes
Matthew	Cooper
Chloe	Edgington
Jamie	Foster
Karina	Foster
Chloe	Freeman-Chick
Mark	Gibbons
Charlotte	Hancock
Grace	Harvey
Leigh	Hayward
Sophie	Hewson
Alex	Jones
Jacob	Jones
Taizya-Mai	Kerr Smith
Sarah	Kolonja
Chloe	Leek
Rob	Millward
Sarah	Millward
Millie	Orme
Joshua	Pullinger
Ashley	Quilter
Amris	Sahota
Ashley	Shakespeare
Mitchell	Smallman
Jade	Smedley
Bridie	Smout
Laura	Stones
Charlotte	Unitt
Danielle	Walker
Abbie	Wisdon

The Lion, The witch and The Wardobe Auditons

2010-08-26T12:06:00.004+01:00

As you are all aware, this year Screminvoiceyouththeatre are doing The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe at the Arena Theatre in Wolverhampton this December.

This is just a reminder that the auditions to be part of this show and company are being held very soon. In fact they are being held on the 8th September 2010. Very soon indeed.

If you are interested in being involved please do let us know and we will pass on audition times to you!

Bilston Live And Loud

2010-08-21T09:56:00.000+01:00

Who would have thought that after only one week the young people from Bilston could create two brilliant shows? Well ... They did!

What a week! What a show!

So ... The seniors took their audience to Heart Break High to experience a day in the life of one of the pupils. What a day it was.

The young people wanted to include issues that are important to them in their piece. They wanted to explore certain problems and bring them to our attention.

In Heart Break High we were faced with underage sex resulting in pregnancy, drugs and alcohol abuse. The are all topics that the young people felt they could relate to and speak about.

Could you hack a day at Heart Break High? ...

The juniors on the other hand worked from an existing script. Techno Tina and Other Gruesome Tales.

This play is made up of grotesque tales for children all based on technology and what it can do to you.

The juniors performed the following tales in their piece:

-Techno Tina (Tina dances to Techno music so much that her arms, legs and body drop off.)

-The Terrible twins (Tammy and Tracey play playstation all day, everyday. Eventually they play so much that they end up stuck in the screen.)

-Winnie Web (Winnie loves her computer so much that she is never off it. One night whilst sleeping the web bugs take her away.)

-Ted and His Enormous Head (Teds mobile phone is quite literally glued to his ear. He uses far too much. So much so that his head becomes abnormally large.)

Both the senior and the junior did fantastically and should be very proud of themselves.

If you were lucky enough to see Bilston Live and Loud this year, please let us know what you thought of it. It would be great to hear from you!

Bilston Live & Loud! - SUMMER HOLIDAY SCHEME

2010-08-02T13:37:00.006+01:00

BILSTON LIVE & LOUD

Monday 16th August - Saturday 21st August 2010

10 - 4pm (Mon - Fri) & 10 - Finish (Sat)

Rehearsals held at Lower Bradley Community Centre

Performance at The Robin2 Club, Mount Pleasant, Bilston

BILSTON LIVE & LOUD is a Summer Performing Arts Project set to give young people in Bilston the opportunity to work with professional directors, actors, dancers and musicians to create a brand new show!

Anyone who lives in the Bilston area who is aged between 8 - 19 can take part! You may already have experience of performing arts or you may be looking to try something new - everyone is welcome!

Working intensively over a six day period, you will get the chance to write, act, sing and dance as we work together to create a completely original production.... It will give young people a voice to shout out about things that matter to them and bring to life their hopes, dreams and aspirations for the future.

The best thing about the whole experience is that it's absolutely FREE!

To get involved - check out the dates and times and call us now to reserve your place on 01902 551760.

Or email sunita.sanji@wolverhampton.gov.uk with your name, age and telephone number and we'll give you a call back.

Check out this event on facebook by following the link below:

http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=252081&op=1&view=all&subj=562242564&id=771026693&ref=notif&notif_t=photo_tag&fbid=5376651693#!/event.php?eid=117335148315637&ref=mf

PLEASE NOTE: Places for this course must be booked in advance.

Sign up to Audition for screaminvoiceyouththeatre

2010-07-25T11:35:00.003+01:00

Follow the link to find out how to audition to become part of screaminvoiceyouththeatre.

Our forthcoming production, 'The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe' will take place at the Arena Theate, Wolverhampton in December.

We're looking for enthusiastic, committed, keen, talented young people to be part of our two groups - the junior company and senior company!

If you're interested, click the link to find out more!

Alice in Wonderland Production Shots!

2010-07-25T08:49:00.006+01:00

Last night, screaminvoiceyouththeatre performed their first performance of 'Alice in Wonderland' in Walsall's magnificent Arboretum.

Publish Post

The sun didn't exactly shine, but the rain stayed away, as the cast gave an excellent performance to an eager and enthusiastic audience.

The promenade piece not only told the classic story against a collection of stunning natural backdrops - it also allowed the audience to enjoy a Summer evening stroll around the beautiful park.

If you didn't make yesterday evening's performance - there's still chance to catch this talented cast of local youngsters as they perform at 7pm this evening - Sunday 25th July! Our ticket desk is situated by The Lakeside Cafe.

Email enquiries@urbanvoice.co.uk for more details!

Alice In Wonderland

2010-07-08T10:09:00.006+01:00

Not long till screaminvoiceyouththeatre perform Alice In Wonderland at Walsall Arboretum! :-)

Have you got your tickets yet folks?

What's that you say?

You haven't?

Well, come on! What are you waiting for?

If you would like to book tickets to see "Alice In Wonderland" please call 01902 307000 and we'll sort them out for you!

This promises to be an unmissable show!!! So pick up the phone and get booking!

Walsall Arboretum
24th and 25th of July

Don't miss it!

Creative Partnerships Project @ Rood End

2010-07-06T09:50:00.002+01:00

Next week's final performance is fast, fast approaching! Are we ready? Of course we are! The pupils are doing a wonderful job and are more than ready.

This week we spent a while with each group making sure that everything that needed polishing was polished. The pupils are proving to us more and more each week how committed they are to this performance - so we are hoping for a super one!

One more day of rehearsing to go. This will be our first rehearsal with everyone from all 4 groups coming together to see each others stories. It will also be the first time that years 3, 4, 5 and 6 will be put into the performance to rehearse their chants. There is a lot to do in one day but we are pretty confident that the pupils can pull it off!

Next Wednesday is performance day.... and we cannot wait!

Keep reading to see how Rood End pupils get on with their "4 Elements performance!" :-)

Creative Partnerships Project @ Rood End

2010-06-29T13:32:00.006+01:00

The final performance for this project is fast approaching and Roodend pupils have been working really hard to make the final piece a super one!

This week has been a busy week for pupils involved in this particular project with two full day rehearsals taking place this week. A lot has been set in those two days and many lines have been learned.

The pupils have proved to be professionals, with some being word perfect and script-free! This Thursday, we even managed to get a few of the stories finished. This is brilliant as it leaves us 2 more sessions of polishing and perfecting!

The Urban Voice team are really pleased with how the pupils from Rood End are working. They are really beginning to take on their roles and we are seeing superb acting from everyone in each group. We are growing ever more excited for the final performance as it will definitely be a show worth watching!

Creative Partnerships project @ Rood End

2010-06-23T11:33:00.006+01:00

This week was our fourth week at Rood End Primary School in Oldbury and all went well. Very well infact!

The pupils were presented with their scripts and parts this week and it was all very exciting!

We spent some time reading through and getting to know our scripts which allowed us to understand our characters and lines.

Following the superb read throughs we managed to set the first part of each script and perform it back to the pupils in the other groups.

Creative Partnerships Project @ Rood End

2010-06-16T11:38:00.009+01:00

Urban Voice have been delivering a Creative Partnerships Project at Roodend Primary School in Oldbury for the past 3 weeks.

In our last blog post regarding this project we spoke about our first 2 workshops. In this post we are going to be focusing on our third workshop with the pupils.

Last week we asked each group to go away and collect as much information as they could on the culture that their story was from. The four cultures that the groups are studying are:

* Innuit
* Norwegian
* Chinese
* Aboriginal

All the children worked really hard over the week on this given task. So this week, we were presented with loads of facts about each culture.

Thank you guys! It's really going to help us when we are scripting our stories.

Here is some of the information that the pupils found out about the Chinese culture:

Here is some of the information that the pupils found out about the Aboriginal culture:

We treated this week as a sort of mini audition for the pupils. It gave us a chance to see the confidence levels within each group.

Next week we will be working from scripts. Parts will be handed out and we will be getting down to rehearsing!

Gyspy & Travellers Film Complete!

2010-06-14T14:40:00.002+01:00

Urban Voice is pleased to announce the completion of our short film, celebrating the Gypsy & Traveller community in Walsall.

'Ketenni' - "Together" is a coulourful and vibrant mosaic of talent, aspiration, heritage and energy that is today's English Gypsy and Irish Traveller inheritance.
The project began over two years ago and has been made possible through funding from TESST - Walsall's dedicated service for the education of young people from Gypsy, Roma and Traveller communities, providing advice, guidance and support to families, individuals, schools and agencies.

Alice in Wonderland - DATES ANNOUNCED

2010-06-11T13:28:00.006+01:00

Urban Voice is pleased to announce the dates of our forthcoming production of "Alice in Wonderland!"

We're extremely fortunate to have secured Walsall Arboretum as our venue for what promises to be a super production set against the beautiful natural backdrop of the park.

Tickets are available by contacting Urban Voice or through members of screaminvoiceyouththeatre.

Creative Partnerships Project @ Roodend

2010-06-08T17:05:00.000+01:00

Urban Voice have been delivering a Creative Partnerships Project at Roodend Primary School, Oldbury, Sandwell.

The project is now well underway and we are becoming ever more excited for the final performance. It ilooks set to be a brilliant performance with some fantastic stories to tell.

So far, we have delivered 2 workshops. The first workshop saw us getting to know the pupils and gave them a chance to meet us! The second workshop saw us introducing each group to the story they will perform!

The final performance is going to be based on the four elements: Earth, Wind, Water and Fire and we'll be exploring them through the art of storytelling, scriptwriting, movement, drama, physical theatre and song!

This week, each class was given a particular story to work on. They had to concentrate, co-operate and communicate with each other in order to produce 4 still images to tell their story.

As you can see from the photographs each class worked really hard. They really started to use their faces, their bodies, different levels, space and depth in their images.

We're really looking forward to next week at Roodend Primary school when we'll begin to bring the storied to life and develop them even further!

Keep reading to stay up to date!

Family Fun Consultation Kit Completed!

2010-06-07T16:39:00.005+01:00

Following a series of creative consultation sessions run by Urban Voice Limited on behalf of Walsall Creative Development Team and NHS Walsall - we are pleased to announce that the FAMILY FUN Consultation Kit is now complete and ready to be used!

The kit will be used to get feedback from participants at Family Fun Sessions throughout venues in Walsall that aim to get families leading more active lifestyles. The kit will be used to consult with participants and evaluate sessions to enable the team that deliver them to gain feedback from service users and find out what works and what needs improving.

The floor mat has been designed by Peter Chaplin, our associate Visual Artist and makes the process of consultation an engaging and exciting event for all involved! Participants use giant dice to select their consultation question which involves some form of light physical activity in order to gain their response.

We hope the kit will be a valuable tool for those delivering Family Fun sessions! We're proud of this, another innovative creation by Urban Voice and our associates.

If you'd like to find out more about our creative consultation methods or discover how we can help you, your organisation or business - get in touch!

Urban Voice are now mobile blogging!

2010-06-04T13:29:00.000+01:00

We'll be keeping you even more up-to-date now we've set up mobile blogging!

Keep checking back to see what we're up to!

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Creative Partnership Poetry Project at The Sutherland School!

2010-06-02T11:07:00.002+01:00

A brand new Creative Partnership project will see us exploring poetry in an exciting and informative way!

Working with a selected group of Year Eight pupils from The Sutherland School, we will be exploring poetry through a range of different art-forms including animation, video, dance, drama, physical theatre and music.

The project looks set to fill the Summer Term with creative fun and here at Urban Voice we're really looking forward to it!

See, poetry doesn't have to be boring! Bet none of you realised just how exciting the world of poetry could be . . . . . !

Do you like the sound of what we're doing? Would you like to know more? Have you got any suggestions or ideas to develop our work further? We'd love to hear from you!

7 Days: A lot can happen in just one week!

2010-05-24T11:26:00.001+01:00

WELL DONE TO EVERYONE INVOLVED IN THE "TAKE TWO" PROJECT!

The project culminated with the performance of 7 Days at the Arena Theatre, Wolverhampton on Saturday 22nd May 2010.

What a wonderful show! Urban Voice would like to congratulate everyone involved with the performance. We have had nothing but good reviews from the audience! :-)

A big thumbs up to cast, crew, support workers, youth workers, menotrs and anyone who had any part to play in this fantastic event!

For those of you thinking, "Take Two? What's that all about?" Allow us to explain . . .

The performance was the culmination of a three month devising and rehearsal process with young people from Walsall & Telford. The project saw Theatre professionals facilitate workshops that gave the performers the opportunity to create a unique and diverse piece of theatre.

The piece explored issues that the group wanted to talk about. This project gave the performers new experiences, new skills and a voice to be heard . . . .

"One single moment was all that it took
A decision, a choice. our foundations were shook.
A fork in the road, a direction to take
Could this lead to happiness or my biggest mistake?"

A party. A party girl. A suitcase packed ready to go. A closed door. A knife, a crime, a text message - will it get there in time?

7 days interweaves 4 stories that confront KNIFE CRIME, TEENAGE PREGNANCY, BULLYING & SEX, DRUGS & ROCK 'N' ROLL.

When your 16, a week can feel like a lifetime . . .

Why not take some time to have a look at the Take Two website?

www.taketwoproject.com

Check out the photo galleries, blog, videos and why not leave a little message on the forum?

Photographs taken by Joanna Blakemore.

A Big Welcome To Our New Creative Arts Worker, Jessica Harper!

2010-05-24T10:23:00.004+01:00

A big "HELLO" goes out to our new Creative Arts Worker, Jessica Harper.

Jessica will be working for Urban Voice Ltd for the next few months while Co-Director, Nicola Byrne is off on maternity leave - having a little one! :-)

So.... Let's get to know the new girl!

Tell us A bit about yourself, Jess . . . .

"Hey folks! As you know, my name is Jessica Harper and I am the new Creative Arts Worker for Urban Voice Limited! I have done freelance acting for Urban Voice prior to this so I feel pretty confident and ready to take on bigger tasks. I'm really looking forward to my time here and I'm sure it's going to be a very rewarding experience. I'm looking forward to the variety of work my days are going to bring. Wish me luck guys :-)"

We feel very lucky to have Jessica on The Urban Voice Team. An experienced actress, she has worked with the likes of "Julie Walters, Tim Healey, Warren Clarke and many more."

We'll be giving Jess time off for auditions and filming as it comes in!

Fancy knowing a bit more about Jessica? If so, visit her website:

www.jessicaharper.weebly.com

She's also big on the blog scene! So check out her blog too:

www.jessicaeharper.blogspot.com

Winners of a West Midlands Safeguarding Award 2010

2010-04-30T11:14:00.000+01:00

Urban Voice are the winners of a West Midlands Safeguarding Award 2010 in the "Focus On Engagement Of Children, Young People And Families" category.

We are thrilled to have received recognition through this award and are happy to see our work commended in this way.

Our project partners, Lyn Stepanian and Heather Waters from Telford & Wrekin Council were at the ceremony to receive the award.

If you'd like to find out more about the award, follow this link to the "West Midlands iep" website to find out more:

www.westmidlandsiep.gov.uk/index.php?page=26&iID=1016

Creative Partnerships Project @ Roodened Primary

2010-03-10T11:28:00.003Z

Urban Voice have been selected to deliver a fantastic new Creative Partnership project at Roodend Primary, Oldbury, Sandwell.

The project will take place throughout the Summer Term and will see KS2 Pupils developing storytelling and performance skills through drama workshops exploring stories from different cultures.

The project will culminate in a live performance that will incorporate video work created by pupils in partnership with Video Artist, Sian Macfarlene.

It promises to be an extremely exciting journey - we can't wait to get started!

Percy Shurmer School set for a creative Summer!

2010-03-10T11:14:00.004Z

Following the success last year of our Primary School Programmes at Percy Shurmer School, Birmingham - the school have decided to book Urban Voice to deliver a full package of activities for pupils over the coming months!

We'll be delivering our 'Huff & I'll Puff' package for Year One, 'Sir, is that a Spaceship in the Playground' for Year Five, 'Sticks & Stones' for Year Four, '3 Vikings, 3 Valkeries and a bar of soap' for Year Three and 'The Lion Bride' with Year Six!

Pupils are in for a treat! We can't wait to meet them and start getting creative!

Map My Journey Consultation April 6th & 7th 2010

2010-03-10T10:59:00.002Z

After a phase of planning and consultation with NHS managers, the 'Map My Journey' Consultation Event will officially take place on April 6th & April 7th at The Crossing @ St. Paul's, Darwall Street, Walsall.

The event forms part of a consultation process commissioned by Walsall Healthy Lifestyles Team and will see Urban Voice facilitating the collection of data and the compilation of that data into a Map My Journey Website & Findings Document.

The event has been designed to give clients a chance to talk about their experiences of the services they have accessed. We're aiming for a relaxed and fun atmosphere where people feel happy to openly share their thoughts and opinions.

The event will be facilitated by an Urban Voice Team of 7 facilitators who are all briefed and raring to go!

Watch this space for further updates!

PROUD: People Responsible for our own unique decisions!

2010-02-10T15:12:00.000Z

We're pleased to announce that our latest film, 'PROUD' is now complete!

This thought-provoking film explores the themes of power/control, rumours, homophobia and sexual pressure.

The film celebrates the idea that all young people are responsible for their own unique decisions.

Little Bloxwich Friendship Comic - SNEAK PREVIEW!

2010-02-08T15:01:00.000Z

Urban Voice have just taken deliver of the super, snazzy, smashing Friendship comics created by Year 5 pupils from Little Bloxwich Primary School, Walsall.

The comic (including a CD of their song) was the culmination of a series of workshops exploring frienship, relationships, co-operation and communication skills and getting along.

Pupils developed creative work in a variety of artforms including drama, music, dance and visual arts.

The end product is something they can be very proud of and a resource the school will be able to benefit from for many years to come!

Well done everyone who took part!

BRAND NEW COMMISION: Take 2!

2010-01-29T14:51:00.000Z

Urban Voice have been successfully selected to deliver a large scale production with young people from Telford and Walsall - TAKE 2!

Working 2 groups - one group from each town, Urban Voice will creatively manage, co-ordinate and deliver a series of devising workshops and rehearsals that will see participants developing their own original production.

The project looks set to be hugely rewarding as we strive to combine our two working groups into one performance company for a one-night-only show.

The project kicks off on Saturday 27th February with the performance taking place on Saturday 22nd May at The Arena Theatre, Wolverhampton.

Pool Hayes School BTEC Performing Arts

2010-01-19T14:05:00.001Z

Urban Voice Arts Workers have spent the day giving BTEC pupils from Pool Hayes School an insight into Theatre in Education.

A specially deisgned workshop gave pupils the chance to view extracts from our own touring productions and get first hand advice, tips, techniques and training from industry professionals.

The group will now enter a devising process before presenting their 'work in progress' back to our arts workers for developmental feedback.

The BTEC group will perform their work to pupils in Year Nine in the coming months as well as taking their productions on tour.

Alumwell Junior School - UFO landing

2010-01-12T13:53:00.001Z

Pupils at Alumwell Junior School were in for a shock when they arrived at school today! They were greeted by Government Officials, a forensic tent and the Official Secrets Act!

Year Five pupils will spend the next 2 days investigating the wreckage of an unidentified craft on their school field as well as trying to discover what secrets a thick green substance could hold.....

"Sir, is that a spaceship in the playground" is an interactive learning experience that puts pupils in the role of investigative journalists. Attending press conferences, interviewing local witnesses and exposing a cover-up...... all in a days work!

For more information on our primary school programmes visit www.urbanvoice.co.uk

Happy Birthday Urban Voice!

2010-01-07T15:58:00.003Z

Happy Birthday to US! Happy Birthday to US! Happy Birthday, Dear Urban Voice! Happy Birthday to US!

Urban Voice Limited

2000 - 2010

That's right - it's our birthday - infact, it's our birth year! And we're going to make sure we celebrate in style!

It's ten years since it all started and we'd like to make sure we let everyone we've worked with join us for one big party!

So get excited, get happy and get ready for an invitation for our big birthday bash very, very soon!

THE SNOW QUEEN - sell out success!

2009-12-19T11:38:00.003Z

The Snow Queen is so far proving to be a SELL OUT success!

Highly acclaimed, the production comes to an end on Sunday 20th December!

There's just four more shows for you to catch - so book your tickets now!

Booby Trap: Baby Trap!

2009-11-12T12:24:00.004Z

Urban Voice arts workers, David Reynolds and Jessica Harper performed a brand new educational 'short' at the launch of a comic yesterday.

NHS Walsall have worked in partnership with Walsall Council Creative Development Team and Local artist, Pete Chaplin to create a resource that tells it like it is!

The comic looks at the negative aspects of teenage pregnancy - and focuses on the issue of becoming a young father.

The premiere was extremely well received by an audience made up of young people, health professionals and school staff.

We look forward to the possibilty of developing the performance further and sharing it with more schools and young people!

Brand new commission: Map My Journey!

2009-11-12T12:12:00.003Z

Urban Voice have just been commissioned to carry out a creative consultation on behalf of Walsall NHS and Walsall Council Creative Development Team.

The project will see the Urban Voice creative team, devising a series of consultation events to consult with users and providors of a range of services. The findings will then be documented in a variety of formats including film, graphics and web-based documentation.

The project will culminate in a dedicated website that allows service users and providors an opportunity to share their journeys, view the journey's of others and find help and support to begin their own.

We'll be posting updates as we embark on our work with upwards of 400 service users.........get ready to map your jouney!!

FILMING DAY SUCCESS @ PHOENIX SCHOOL!

2009-10-23T08:44:00.010+01:00

Urban Voice have now completed filming with a group of Year Eleven pupils from Phoenix School in Telford.

The pupils spent half a day exploring the issue of sexual bullying which allowed them to devise and write their very own film short film.

The film breaks down into four short vignettes:

"Can't Say NO!" - a dominating boyfriend tries to influence his girlfriend's choices

"Chinese Whispers" - a sexual rumour spreads out of control

"Misunderstood" - when not fancying someone seems to 'determine' your sexuality

"Tonight's the Night" - when peer pressure makes it hard to decide

The one-day shoot took place yesterday, 22nd October, and was a tremendous success! The pupils were a fantastic asset to their school and spent the whole day, including break and lunchtime, working incredibly hard.

The film will premiere at Telford & Wrekin Anti-Bullying Conference on 25th November!

We'll be uploading some sneak previews very soon - so keep checking!

Saturday Morning Drama Club Launch Day!

2009-10-17T13:11:00.004+01:00

Saturday 17th October marks the beginning of a brand new drama club for young people in Years 4, 5 & 6 in the Pelsall, Rushall and Shelfield area of Walsall!

Urban Voice Art's Workers, David Reynolds & Jessica Harper will be delivering six 2 hour workshops over the coming weeks that will help participants meet new friends, learn new skills and have loads of fun!

The 30 strong group of children who have been selected from a large number of applicants arrived this morning and took part in their first session.

If the six week trial goes well - the drama club could become a regular activity for local kids - so watch this space!

Youth Forum Film Project Begins....

2009-10-12T11:17:00.004+01:00

The Walsall Youth Forum Film Project has now begun!

On Thursday 8th October, we met the group of approximately 30 young people and ran a consultation session to discover what 'content' the group would like to cover in their DVD.

Through group activities, we got to know each other and explored what each individual felt they had to offer. We then filmed each participant in front of our Green Screen so that should we wish, the footage can be included as part of their final DVD.

Alongside this, Visual Artist Peter Chaplin ran a 'caricature' workshop where the youngsters could share their talents, hopes and aspirations for the future.

The project will run throughout the 2009/2010 academic year and, after meeting the fantastic group we'll be working with, looks set to be a huge success!

SNOW QUEEN: Rehearsals Begin!

2009-10-01T12:00:00.002+01:00

Both our Junior and Senior groups began working on the first sections of script this Wednesday evening and already it promises to be a magical production!

With a combined cast of 45 - this will be the biggest and best Winter production by the youth theatre to date.

We do have 5 places left for anyone wishing to join us and get involved!

If you'd like to take part - contact us through the contact form on our website and we'll get back to you straight away!

“Stories. Tales of old told to boys and girls who listen to believe in worlds made magical by nothing but words on a page that somehow become whatever we wish them to be. Stories. Tales of old that we are told so we can believe the unbelievable, imagine the unimaginable and, somehow, see the story, picture the tale, as if, in front of us the story becomes real, the tale not told but there, escaping our imagination and landing in front of our eyes.”

Is your FAMILY FIT?

2009-09-30T13:30:00.002+01:00

Urban Voice Limited have been commissioned by Walsall Council Creative Development Team to deliver a series of creative consultation sessions with families throughout Walsall.

The consultation sessions will aim to find out what family fitness provision currently exists and what they'd like to see developed in the future.

The Urban Voice Team will be making this consultation an engaging, exhilarating and entertaining experience...... so watch this space for more information very, very soon!

NEW WEBSITE LAUNCHED!

2009-09-30T13:27:00.001+01:00

We're pleased to announce the unveiling of our brand new website!

The site has been designed to allow users the opportunity to gain an insight into our work through numerous examples of our current, past and future projects!

New features include: A news feed, contact form, location map, video examples as well as downloadable brochures and photos.

So, have a look - and if you like what you see......spread the word!

THE GROWING UP GAME!

2009-09-25T10:29:00.006+01:00

A website to help primary school teachers and pupils tackle the subject of growing up!

Take a look - http://www.thegrowingupgame.com

For more information, get in touch!

Fade Away premieres at Telford Film Festival!

2009-09-25T06:31:00.002+01:00

Our new film, 'Fade Away', recently previewed at Telford Film Festival!

Working in partnership with the Culture Development Department in Creative Arts Telford and Wrekin, Telford Culture Zone and Find Your Talent, Urban Voice devised and produced a new film project with students of Ercall Wood Technology College.

The project saw us working with a group of year eight and nine boys who were identified as disaffected and disengaged with school and at potential risk of exclusion.

The final film follows a pupil through his experience of bullying through the internet and new media. For more information or to view this film, get in touch!

New Film!

2009-09-25T06:27:00.006+01:00

Hostel Life: Coloured Grey now complete!

Working with young people from a Wolverhampton-based hostel, Urban Voice have produced a unique, thought-provoking short film exploring what it’s like to be a young person living in a hostel.

The process involved a number of young people sharing their real-life stories in order to devise, storyboard and perform in this original film.

'Coloured Grey', captures some of the experiences of young people living in hostels today through a fictional narrative inspired by the shared stories of the people involved.

To view the film - get in touch!

screaminvoiceyouththeatre AUDITION!

2009-09-23T16:30:00.001+01:00

Be part of our latest show!

Pennfields Special School Halloween Project

2008-09-02T15:15:00.000+01:00

The year nine children of Pennfields Special School were studying 'Spooky Stories' for one of their English projects. The teacher involved felt that in order for them to have a complete understanding of creating mood and atmosphere, they should some sort of theatrical experience along this theme. Urban Voice felt that this really should be an experience in which they should be actively involved, rather than passive audience members. An interactive piece of site specific theatre was created especially for pupils with special needs.

The piece takes the form of a ghost-walk/murder mystery in which the young people are lead around the attic rooms of the Mansion House in Sherwsbury by an actor in role as a ghost. The children meet characters of the past and solve an ancient murder enquiry, using various clues and maps. the piece was very successful and has been repeated in other schools.

"In October 2002, myself and fourteen of my pupils visited Urban Voice Theatre Company at the Mansion House in Shrewsbury. The pupils, all with special educational needs and between the ages of twelve and fourteen, participated in a Halloween 'Murder mystery' event. The pupils were entirely enthused by the event and still, over a month later are desperate to repeat the experience. The three actors that worked with the children were both professional and considerate to the specific needs of the pupils. The pupils all participated fully in the drama and were extremely pleased when 'Baroness Pimplybottom' was found guilty, as they had suspected. The day was well structured and organised with act ivies appropriate to the needs of the pupils. Overall, an excellent day. I would recommend Urban voice without reservation."
Eve Charlton Pennfields School

Meir Today, Gone Tomorrow!

2008-08-14T10:31:00.000+01:00

This huge, year-long project saw us working alongside Creative Partnerships Stoke & Crescent Primary School to create a whole school & community play! Over 400 pupils and staff took aprt in the performance that was specially written for the school.

Writers, Directors, Musicians and Film Makers worked on the project to produce

Urban Voice Archives......Coming Soon!

2008-08-14T10:03:00.000+01:00

Urban Voice Limited will soon be posting a complete set of archives. This will take the form of a detailed catalogue of the work we've done since we started in 2000!

We'll be including descriptions of projects, photographs and videos of some of our favourite projects!

So.....if you want to find out more about Urban Voice Limited is all about......come back soon and find out!

Walsall Pan SRB Project

2003-01-01T16:09:00.000Z

Urban Voice were approached to co-ordinate the drama element for the last Pan SRB project in Walsall. Working alongside Walsall Community Arts, artistic director Michael Richardson, Ace dance company, Cultural Sisters and Urban Voice assisted the young performers in celebratory piece of drama.

"Phoenix demonstrates how young people today deal with some of the issues which face them as they are growing up; and shows how the experiences, whether good or bad, can be used to help them develop into young adults who are ready to face up to the challenges of their future lives."
Walsall Community Arts

The Magical Christmas Tree

2002-12-01T15:42:00.000Z

Urban Voice performed The Magical Christmas Tree as a Christmas special at Butts primary School. The story tells the tale of the Christmas tree no one else wanted but is eventually brought by the Appleyby family. When the tree is decorated, it comes to life, and magically turns the dreams of children into reality. Using classic storytelling fused with original songs and unique poetry.

Devonshire School Tudor Project

2002-09-02T15:32:00.000+01:00

Devonshire School contacted Urban Voice with a request for actors to help them with a project based on the Tudors. Working also with curators at the Oak House in West Bromwich, Urban voice provided an on-going project in which two actors worked 'in-role' with the young people, as and when they solved the different sections of the Tudor mystery. The children were encouraged to interact directly with the characters, ask them questions, send e-mails and telephone them as they solved various clues to the story. the piece was completed in December with a final production from the children.

"It's working very well so far, the children actually believe it's real and are getting quite caught up in the story!"
Mary Flitcroft Deavonshire School

Living on The Never Never

2002-09-02T15:04:00.000+01:00

Following research done in February and a meeting with Jan Norton from the Theatre in Health Education Trust, urban Voice were contacted by Nick McCartney, co-ordinator of the 'Mind Your Head! Health and Well Being Festival' at the MAC in Birmingham. it was felt that our working piece, Living on the Never, Never which focuses on debt, would fit well into the ethos of the festival. A short experimental piece was created for the festival as a 'work in progress' to test audience responses.

The piece was well recieved and as a result was funded by West Midlands Arts for a six week tour of the Black Country.

"Really enjoyed seeing your work. This is an important issue, you must get it out there locally!"
Jan Norton, Theatre in Health Education Trust

Brinsford Young Offenders Prison "It's Only a Game"

2002-08-02T14:41:00.000+01:00

Working in collaboration with the inmates from Brinsford Young Offenders Institute, Urban Voice devised a short piece of drama focusing on football culture. The performers in question were encouraged to produce their own work with Urban Voice as a guide. The inmates also had the opportunity to work with a professional musician to create an original sound track. The final piece was performed to their peers as a successful and unique work.

"I was amazed to find that lads were taking away scripts and poetry to their cells ready to learn for their next session. The boys are often wary of outside influences, and I think gave Urban Voice a run for their money on the first couple of sessions. To their credit, urban Voice managed to create a complete turn around, and got something from them that surprised us all."
Llinos Williams, Education Lecturer, Brinsford Prison

The Green Festival

2002-07-02T14:38:00.000+01:00

Urban Voice were commissioned by Shrewsbury and Atcham Borough Council to perform a piece of street theatre focusing on green issues. Using slapstick comedy, poetry and song, the piece was promenaded through the town of Shrewsbury and was extremely well received.

Focus on Friendship

2002-06-02T14:23:00.000+01:00

Working alongside Walsall Community Arts, Urban Voice developed workshops for year seven pupils at Frank F Harrison School using drama techniques to explore the strengths and weaknesses of friendships. Such was the success of the workshop, Urban Voice were invited back to administer the same workshops for teachers at the school.

"Some of the pupils in your workshop have never participated or taken part in any extra curricular sessions. To my amazement, certain pupils stood up, became involved and for the first time in this school had a voice. As a result, we felt it was important that these techniques should be taught to teachers in order to get the same level of enthusiasm from their pupils."
Amanda Jemett, Frank F Harrison School

Transition 2

2002-05-01T14:13:00.000+01:00

Rachel Parker from Walsall Community Arts invited us to repeat or provide a similar Transition project as the previous year. This was to be a much longer project as a result of the success of the previous project.

"Urban Voice's facilitation in the 'Transition' projects fully supported young people to creatively explore their thoughts, feelings and experiences of school transition. Through the drama process year 6 pupils were able to broaden their awareness of the pending move whilst year 7 participants acquired further confidence and knowledge to use drama as a tool for passing on positive peer messages."
Rachel Parker Arts into PSHE co-ordinator, Walsall Community Arts Team

Brownhills Youth Community Project

2001-12-01T14:06:00.000Z

Walsall Community Arts Team requested Urban Voice to create a platform for which disadvantaged children from the Brownhills community could develop their respective talents, be it acting, script writing, singing or dancing. This culminated in two final performances to adult in their local community.

"Urban Voice worked really well to motivate the young people and bring out the best in them. They introduced them to improvisation and script writing for the first time and allowed them to do things they never thought they were capable of."
Kim Fuller, Project C0-ordinator

Living Next Door to Malice

2001-08-01T13:53:00.000+01:00

Urban Voice were approached by Gazebo Theatre in Education Company to collaborate on this project. The Piece was toured to primary schools in Walsall and Wolverhampton and was received with great enthusiasm. in addition to the schools tour, the piece was also taken to Warwick University by request of Jonathan Neelands (renowned drama author) as a learning tool for under graduates studying theatre in education.

"The children and myself thoroughly enjoyed the programme. All sections were very entertaining. The selection of music was particularly appropriate. Scenes where pupils were involved with the action were excellent. It was totally appropriate levels for year six pupils with excellent questioning techniques. The children have learned a lot about developing relationships and solving problems. A superb introduction into this area of the curriculum."
Julie Smith, Teacher at Moathouse primary School

Transition

2001-07-01T11:49:00.000+01:00

This project saw Urban Voice working alongside Walsall's Community Arts Team, exploring with primary school pupils their tough ts, feeling, hopes, fears and aspirations regarding their pending move to secondary school.

Some of the themes covered were bullying, friendship, teamwork and peer pressure. A piece was then devised in collaboration with Manor farm secondary school pupils, who performed to their feeder primary schools.

The House That Saved A king

2001-06-01T10:25:00.000+01:00

A site specific promenade piece set against the backdrop of Moseley Old Hall's rich history.

Following intensive research and a partnership with curators of Moseley Old Hall, Urban Voice told this compelling tale through the use of puppetry, song, masks, pyrotechnics, cookery, all culminating in a celebratory garden party!

"It was a marvellous experience seeing Moseley Old Hall brought to life in such a vibrant and joyous way."
Margaret Dean, Head Curator Moseley Old Hall