The Merlin Theatre works with schools and educational centres in a number of ways: Theatre productions chosen to appeal to school audiences Companies who produce work for children and young people are usually able to offer additional workshops and Education Resource Packs to accompany the show. A venue for school productions and film screenings The Merlin's 240 seat auditorium is available to hire. DVD projector and other AV equipment is also available (see Technical page for more details). Backstage Theatre Visits Tour the theatre and see the workings of a professional theatre. We can demonstrate lighting, sound effects and even the smoke machine! We can also organise drama workshops during your visit.

Newsletter A termly newsletter highlighting areas of the Merlin's work which may be of interest to teachers. Professional Development for teachers We co-ordinate professional development opportunities for teachers, mainly in dance and drama. Workshops with visiting professional companies Many of the theatre and dance companies who perform at the Merlin can offer workshops for school groups.
Participation... Recent projects include: Arts and Kids The Merlin Theatre was selected to be one of the Prince of Wales' Foundation for Children and the Arts partner arts organisations in 2006. Over the past two years the Merlin has been working with First schools in the Frome area to give children the opportunity to take part in activities in their local cultural centres. Frome Elders The Merlin has been working with Bennett Gardens and Beckington day centres for older people, providing a series of art and movement activities for groups who meet there once a week. These included Pilates, chair dancing, stained glass and animation. We are hoping that this project will be expanded in 2009.
Moving on with Music Funded by Youth Music, Joanna Harvey worked as a musician-in-residence at the Key Centre, Bishop Henderson Nursery and the Link Children's Centre. Families in Tune In collaboration with SPAEDA, the Merlin took a leading role in a new case study commissioned by Somerset County Council involving parental support advisors (PSAs) in Frome and Shepton Mallet. Families recommended by the PSAs took part in a series of activities aimed at building confidence, communication and self esteem. Activities included drumming, circus skills and VJing, and culminated in a finale performance at the theatre for all participants. 5x5x5 The Merlin is pleased to be a partner in the 5x5x5=creativity project, which involves groups of artists, educators and cultural centres working in partnership to support young children in their exploration and expression of ideas. 5x5x5 is inspired by the celebrated Reggio Emilia education approach that respects children as strong, capable protagonists in their own learning. This child-informed approach is distinguished by a unique commitment to the role of documentation and research in learning and teaching – and by the participating adults' role as companions, not leaders, of the children. The Merlin has been working since 2006 with artist Annabelle Macfadyen and Bishop Henderson nursery. See www.5x5x5creativity.org.uk for further information.

We also run weekly theatre and dance classes for 5-19 year olds – please visit the Youth Activities page for further information.

To find out more about the Merlin’s Education and Participation programme contact Nell Farrally, Education Manager on 01373 461360 or nell@merlintheatre.co.uk .