ATG Celebrates World Theatre Day with Local Creative Learning at Milton Keynes Theatre
- 5 min read
The unique ‘Where We Belong’initiative brings together artists, educators, and community members across the UK, US and Europe in a worldwide moment of celebration.
World Theatre Day, established by the International Theatre Institute in 1961 and celebrated annually on 27 March, honours the impact of theatre in shaping societies and enriching lives. It is a day dedicated to the global exchange of artistic expression, fostering unity and cultural understanding through performance.
As part of this celebration, ATG will share a collaborative anthem, co-created with ‘Creative Learning’ programme participants,and incorporating a breadth of diverse voices from across its wide network of venues, to highlight all of the Creative Learning activity happening across all ATG venues and encouraging involvement from local communities.
ATG’s Creative Learning programme's engage thousands of participants annually, from aspiring young performers to dedicated theatre practitioners, ensuring that theatre remains accessible and inspiring for future generations. By featuring voices from across these Creative Learning programme's, the World Theatre Day anthem will reflect the diversity and vibrancy of the performing arts, celebrating local communities combining to create a global celebration.
"Theatre has always been a powerful space for storytelling, connection, and creative expression," said Hollie Coxon, Group Head of Creative Learning at ATG Entertainment. "Each year we look forward to working alongside our colleagues, to recognise World Theatre Day as an opportunity to communicate and acknowledge the importance of nurturing the future of live entertainment. Over the past few years, we’ve developed ‘Creative Learning’ stemming from the UK and now delivered across the USA and continental Europe, so it felt apt to put the ‘World’ into World Theatre Day and work through a collaborative process with groups around the world to platform what they have to say about theatre.
With the ‘Where We Belong’ anthem, locally-driven Creative Learning teams have collaborated with individuals across the UK, US, and continental Europe to harness theatre’s unique ability to unite, inspire, and amplify community voices. This anthem,written by participants across our programme's in venues around the world, is a timely tribute to the transformative impact of theatre, not just for audiences and artists, but for everyone who engages with it, including participating schools and youth academies to community initiatives, creative partners, local artists, industry talent and beyond."
‘Where We Belong’ anthem will amplify the importance of theatre education and community engagement, shared through the perspectives and voices of those who bring theatre to life every day; participants of all ages and backgrounds including performers, students, educators, and industry professionals. The anthem will be released on ATG’s digital platforms, inviting audiences worldwide to join in the celebration of theatre’s enduring impact.
ATG Entertainment’s World Theatre Day celebrations extend beyond the anthem, with a host of exciting activities taking place in venues across the UK, US, and Europe in the coming months. From interactive workshops and behind-the-scenes tours to special performances and community-led projects, there are numerous ways for people of all ages to get involved. Whether a seasoned theatre enthusiast or new to the world of live performance, these events offer a chance for people to connect, create, and celebrate the power of theatre.
Here’s what’s happening in the local community:
MKT Academy: Adult Dance Classes
Whether you’re looking to improve overall fitness and posture, further your technique or weekly exercise, these adult dance classes are a great social – in the backstage studio at Milton Keynes Theatre.
Ages 18+ | £93.50 for an 11-week term
Adult Ballet (Intermediate)
Tuesdays | 7.15pm - 8.15pm
Adult Tap (Inter/Advanced)
Thursdays | 5.30pm - 6.30pm
FitSteps
Thursdays | 6.45pm - 7.45pm
MKT Academy: Youth Theatre
Our weekly drama classes are designed to develop children and young people’s key drama skills and technique; building confidence, public speaking and teamwork.
Tuesday evenings
Act 1
4.30pm - 5.30pm
School Years 2 – 4 | £93.50 for the term
Act 2
5.45pm - 7pm
School Years 5 – 8 | £99.00 for the term
MKT Voices
Learn to sing in harmony, make new friends and develop skills in our weekly choir – followed by a cuppa. No previous experience necessary!
Thursdays | 10.30am – 12.30pm
Ages 18+ | £7 per week
Storytime at MKT
This fun, sensory experience will immerse you and your little ones in a magical world, based on well-loved books! Includes a craft activity, and a cuppa for the adults!
Fri 4 Apr, Fri 2 May, Fri 6 Jun & Fri 4 Jul | 10.15 & 11.15am
Under 5s | £8 per child (incl. One adult)
Musical Theatre Easter Schools
With a variety of singing, dancing and acting, the Musical Theatre Easter Schools are designed to develop your child’s skills, technique and experience whilst tapping into their creativity!
Mon 7 & Tue 8 Apr | 10am – 4pm (Daily)
Ages 5 – 8 years | £70 per person
Wed 9 & Thu 10 Apr | 10am – 4pm (Daily)
Ages 9 – 12 years | £70 per person
Theatre Tours
Join us for an insight into a working theatre on one of our informative tours. Explore unseen areas of your local venue and hear stories and anecdotes about life at Milton Keynes Theatre!
Sat 10 May & Sat 26 Jul | 10am
Ages 8+ | £10 per person
