Hampstead Theatre is collaborating with Camden Council, Age UK Camden, Wac Arts, and the Winch to combat isolation in London’s ‘loneliest borough’ through theatre.
Research from Camden’s State of the Borough Report 2024 reveals that over a third of adults in Camden feel lonely some of the time, often, or always, with the highest rate among London boroughs at 36.3%.
In response, Hampstead Theatre has launched a new participatory programme for adults at risk of loneliness and social isolation. This includes regular Community Nights, offering a relaxed space for groups to engage with the theatre through tours, social events, and tickets to shows.
Jennifer Davis, Hampstead Theatre’s Participation Director, said:
“We’ve been working hand-in-hand with organisations such as Age UK Camden, the Winch and Wac Arts to find a way to bring local people and communities together to combat social isolation and loneliness, both of which can have a significant impact on people’s wellbeing.
So far, we’ve welcomed 350 people to take part in writing and performance sessions or to see a show at the theatre and have seen first-hand the hugely positive effect that creativity and making connections can have on individuals and communities.”
Councillor Anna Burrage, Camden Council Primrose Hill Ward, added:
“I’m delighted to see the impact of Hampstead Theatre’s community participation work on our local area. It’s brought together individuals from diverse backgrounds to work with dedicated professionals, fostering a sense of community and creativity. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive and I’m proud to have supported this initiative. I look forward to seeing its continued growth and success.”
Councillor Judy Dixey, Camden Council Belsize Ward, commented:
“Belsize Councillors were delighted to support Hampstead Theatre’s Participation team with their latest community-based projects. The productions by the participants, all members of the local community, were exceptionally stirring, and I’m sure the impacts will be far-reaching for them themselves. These projects also demonstrated the wide value of our local theatre, and the power of the community activity undertaken by a very small but hugely imaginative team.”
The collaboration with Age UK Camden has seen playwright Martha Watson-Allpress and a group of older people write a play about their experiences of ageing, challenging common stereotypes. Their work was brought to life by professional actors at Hampstead Theatre. Meanwhile, at the Winch, artist Yasmin Dawes and a group of women at risk of homelessness created a play called Seeds of Joy.
The next project in May, in partnership with Wac Arts, will explore how theatre can build positive relationships between generations by bringing together younger and older people to form a creative writing group.
Hampstead Theatre’s participation programme complements its work with new and established writers through its INSPIRE mentorship programme and the productions across its two stages. Later this year, a new course for local first-time directors will be launched to address the gap in director training opportunities.
More information can be found here.
