Spare tyre

Spare Tyre: Engaging Communities through Participatory Theatre

Spare Tyre is a UK-based participatory theatre company that has been making waves in the arts and cultural scene for over 40 years. Their mission is to engage those who are least involved in arts and cultural activity, producing multi-sensory, accessible, and inclusive touring theatre and outreach arts activities locally and nationally.

The company was founded in 1979 by Artistic Director Clare Venables with the aim of creating work that would challenge traditional notions of theatre. Spare Tyre's early productions were experimental, often incorporating elements of physical theatre, music, dance, and multimedia. Over time, they developed a unique style that combined storytelling with audience participation.

Today, Spare Tyre is recognised as one of the leading participatory theatre companies in the UK. They work with a diverse range of communities including people with learning disabilities, mental health issues, older people living with dementia or isolation as well as young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.

One of their most successful productions to date has been "The Garden", which explores themes around ageing and dementia. The play was created through extensive research involving people living with dementia and their carers. It has toured extensively across the UK since its premiere in 2014.

Spare Tyre's approach to creating work is rooted in collaboration. They work closely with community groups to co-create performances that reflect their experiences and perspectives. This process involves workshops where participants can share stories or ideas which are then developed into scripts or performance pieces.

Their outreach activities include workshops on drama skills such as improvisation or devising techniques for schools or community groups; training sessions for professionals working within healthcare settings; residencies where artists can develop new work alongside local communities; mentoring programmes for emerging artists from underrepresented backgrounds.

Spare Tyre's commitment to accessibility means they produce performances that are designed to be inclusive for all audiences regardless of age or ability. They use a range of techniques such as audio description, sign language interpretation, and relaxed performances to ensure that everyone can enjoy their work.

Their touring productions have been seen by thousands of people across the UK and internationally. Spare Tyre has also won numerous awards for their work including the prestigious Guardian Charity Award in 2015.

In conclusion, Spare Tyre is a unique theatre company that has made significant contributions to the arts and cultural scene in the UK. Their participatory approach to creating work has enabled them to engage with communities who are often excluded from mainstream cultural activities. Their commitment to accessibility means they produce performances that are inclusive for all audiences. Spare Tyre's success is a testament to their dedication towards creating meaningful experiences through theatre.