Kicking off our brand-new Participation Programme with Creative Movement Workshops for over 60s.

We’re looking for Wiganers to take part in our brand-new FREE programme – created and shaped for them.  

Last year, we worked with the Royal Exchange’s Open Exchange Festival to create a new show for Wigan. Pigeon was written by one of our long-time collaborators, supported artist and local lad, Joseph Walsh. As part of the co-creation process, we had the pleasure of working with a local intergenerational community cast. Not actors by trade – but the voice, joy and heart they brought to the piece created something truly special – something that simply wouldn’t have existed without that sense of community and belonging behind it. It reminded us how powerful creativity can be when people come together.

Since moving into The Engine Room, we’ve met so many local people who simply want to be involved. People curious to try something new. People looking for connection. People who miss creative spaces, or perhaps never felt they were “for them” in the first place.

At the same time, through our conversations with local residents and community partners, we’ve become increasingly aware of Wigan’s growing ageing population. Of the importance of creating opportunities that support not just wellbeing, but confidence, expression, creativity and community too.

Creativity doesn’t belong to a certain age group. Spaces where people can come together, to play, move, make and connect are needed now more than ever.

These workshops have grown directly from those conversations.

Creative Movement Workshops for people aged 60+ (or CM60, as the ThickSkin team now call it) are not about being a dancer or getting things right. They’re about curiosity. About laughter. About rediscovering playfulness and imagination through movement. About meeting new people, building confidence and surprising yourself along the way.

We believe creativity belongs to everyone, at every stage of life. And we’re excited to open the doors and welcome people into our space – with the hope that, before long, it feels like their space too.

So what are you waiting for? Share the news or sign up today. We can’t wait to meet you. 

With lots of excitement,

Rae Bell

Assistant Producer