The idea
Young people in Lambeth will work with professional architects to co-design and self-build their own temporary structure to plan and create events for other young people across the borough.
Ovalhouse Theatre are currently moving from Oval to a purpose-built space in Brixton.
This transition is an opportunity to for us to ensure young people are at the centre of our decision-making. Young people will be able to perform in this new space through community events in the lead-up to the soft opening of the new building (April-Septemeber 2020) – by occupying the abandoned playground within the old school building on Somerlyton Road.
The new youth designed and built space will feel owned and connected with young people because they will have physically constructed it and will work with our programming team to curate what happens within it during summer 2020.
What we'll deliver
- Reinvigorate an abandoned play space
- Build a temporary structure
Why it's a great idea
A group of children from primary schools across Brixton will physically build this new temporary performance space - hard hats and power tools included! These children will have a transformative experience, learning a huge amount of skills as they design and built this structure.
Hundreds of young people will have the opportunity to get involved. Youth groups, youth theatres, community organisations and schools will all be invited to use this new space to stage performances which bring together the entire community.
The resulting space will be a place of community celebration.
Steps to get it done
- Consultation workshops with Brixton Primary Schools - July 2019
- Design workshops with Brixton Primary Schools - October/November 2019
- Construction of temporary structure - April 2020
- Hosting of community events and performances - May-Sept 2020
