Longford's Backstage InterACT workshops with Cruinniu na nOg

A packed and diverse programme is on offer through Longford's premier arts hub.

As well as offering a week-long programme of free workshops for schools, Backstage will open their doors on Saturday June 10 for a host of free workshops for kids.

These workshops cover a variety of genres and cater for budding artists from six to 16 years of age.

The first workshop entitled 'Filmmaking' features the IFTA nominated writer director team of Robert Higgins and Patrick McGivney.

The creators of the recently released award winning film ‘Lakelands’ will focus on the basics of filmmaking and screenwriting in a fun, practical and insightful look at the first steps needed to make a film.

The world of theatre is explored with director Gea Gojak. Through creative tasks and diverse exercises, children will share thoughts and ideas about their surroundings and everyday lives to find themes they are curious to talk about.

This workshop shows how to create stories and theatre concepts inspired by these themes, how to establish the story for a theatre play and how to find the tools to evoke critical thinking in a young audience.

Budding musicians will get the chance to meet Rap Duo Kofi and ND, who recently came third in a bid to represent Ireland in the Eurovision Song Contest with their song ‘Down in the Rain’, a song that inspires its listeners to never give up on your aspirations no matter how tough the road may seem.

The duo will discuss their creative writing process and guide participants through the recording process. This includes how recording equipment such as the microphone, interface and speakers work. The workshop participants may even get the chance to record a line or two of music.

Orla Mc Carthy will lead a creative dance workshop. Coming from a background with lots of dance improvisation, Orla is keen to share the beauty of creating dance in the moment. Orla believes that everybody can dance and she can’t wait to share some tools to do just that.

Using imagery to spark the imagination, she will guide the participants through different exercises that inspire them to move in new ways. The joy of dance is at the heart of this class and so everyone is bound to have fun!

Workshops are all free but spaces are limited and booking is essential on 0433347888 or backstage.ie