This is an opportunity to bring World War One to life sensitively, with interactive and engaging shows that explain why the war happened, what the soldiers experienced and how the conflict changed our world and our communities. The World War One show takes children on a journey of understanding from how the conflict started and the euphoria at the outbreak of the war, conscription and then onto life in the trenches and the experience of the Tommy. The show is immersive through getting children involved with costumes, props, and the narrative of the story with songs, music, and effects to help them imagine what it was like to be a soldier in the trenches. The show balances a fun, energetic and engaging approach with an appropriate respect and sensitivity for the subject.

What we'll deliver:

• Ten World War One shows delivered to children across West Sussex
• Reaching a minimum of 3,000 KS2 children
• Increase awareness and knowledge of the importance of remembrance and commemoration of WW1
• Bringing history to life in an age appropriate sensitive manner
• Providing an enriching educational experience
• Making history accessible to children

Why it's a great idea:

Pledges will enable the funding of WW1 shows across the county, making a difference by raising awareness of the importance of commemoration. Encouraging children to consider the sacrifices made by so many, and increasing their historical knowledge of the conflict. As WW1 is not studied at most primary schools, these shows offer the opportunity to teach children about this important period of history, and inspire a deeper awareness and understanding of our shared history. This Autumn marks the centenary of the Armistice and I would like to offer free shows to primary schools across the county whose funds are often restricted for extra-curricular activities, as well as community events who also have limited budgets. Pledges will enable me to offer ten free shows, as well as the purchasing and upgrading of WW1 props, equipment and storage to further develop the shows into a truly immersive, educational and enriching experience for children across the county.

Steps to get it done:

• Contacting schools in the West Sussex area
• Contacting community groups holding centenary events in West Sussex area
• Booking show dates with schools and community groups
• If community event, assisting with event marketing and promotion
• Purchasing digital projector
• Purchasing costumes and props (NB: for past WW1 shows these had to be hired which is not cost effective)
• Performing shows in schools and at community events

I have secured interest from the seven West Sussex schools who would love the show performed for the whole of their Key Stage 2 pupils (7-11 yrs old) in the Autumn Term - this amounts to around 1,750 children who will gain from the experience! Lindfield Primary School, Lindfield St Joseph's School, Haywards Heath St Peter's Primary School, Ardingly Harlands Primary School, Haywards Heath Blackwell Primary School, East Grinstead Birchwood Grove School, Burgess Hill Funtington Primary School, Chichester I would like to offer the remaining three shows to community events to widen participation.