Volunteering in creative activities can be inspirational, claims Christine Dalby.
Dance Funtasia is an all-day dance and theatre workshop that takes place once a month in Bewdley, Worcestershire. It provides creative opportunities for children, many of whom come from rural areas and might otherwise have little or no access to creative activity. The workshop is run by members of Margaret Morris Movement (MMM). As one of the volunteers, I teach some of the Childrens Grade exercises, as well as supervising and encouraging children with their creative activities in dance and art. Sometimes we have to strike a balance between what they would like to do and what they are capable of doing, especially with the younger ones. They work on costume design and, with a little help, make their own costumes and props. They have really good ideas and it is interesting to spot those with leadership qualities and good communication skills.
Part of the day is spent creating some of their own dances. In addition, they work on Ecossaisen (a dance choreographed by Margaret Morris and revived thanks to MMMs Artistic Director, Jim Hastie) and dances choreographed by Valerie Wood. Valerie has been teaching dance and MMM for over forty years. Dance Funtasia was her idea and is proving very successful.
So why do I give up my time to help? There are so many reasons. I love the freedom of movement, the creativity, the beautiful movements in the exercises, the joy of dance. I have seen the physical benefits of dance for people of all ages and abilities. If we start with children, hopefully they will continue with it in adult life and learn to teach others. And I am still learning. When I am not teaching, I join the childrens Grade Three class as a student!
There are, of course, mundane tasks to do, such as putting out chairs and tables ready for the art activities; clearing up the paint, glue, off-cuts of material, etc. at the end, washing paintpots and putting the vacuum cleaner round the floor. But then there is the thrill of the childrens performance well, it is for some! The excitement of being in a theatre and going on stage for the first time gives most of the children a real buzz. However, one might get stage fright (I feel sick, I cant do it!) and need a volunteer for comfort and support. Another might stand in the wings at dress rehearsal, waiting to perform her solo, saying, Its dark, I dont like the dark. A quick word with the lighting technician and the problem is solved.
Later this year we are working towards putting on a childrens show. We only have a small grant and the cost of hiring the hall is going up. So, without the help of our small group of volunteers, who are able to offer a wide range of skills, the children would miss out on a wonderful experience.
Christine Dalby is a volunteer for Dance Funtasia, run by Margaret Morris Movement.
e: chrisatkerswell55@tiscali.co.uk