Making Things Up

Making Things Up brings together Manchester's Improvised Comedy Theatre scene and people who are experiencing homelessness. I initiated and produced the pilot project in collaboration with the award-winning homelessness charity Coffee4Craig and Manchester's local troupe ImproQuo.

In weekly workshops, our participants were invited to learn improv comedy skills, express themselves and share laughter in a safe space. The impact went beyond our expectations - participants not only had their first experience of improv and co-creation, but also reported an increase in confidence. Some participants went on to take on volunteering positions, rekindle estranged family relationships, succeed at job interviews and take other steps out of social isolation.

The inaugural run of the project took place from January - March 2023. It was supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England.

We're currently planning Vol 2. Watch this space.