If you’re part of an army family and have ever harboured an ambition to step into the limelight and develop your artistic side, The Soldiers’ Arts Academy (SAA) could be a good place to start.
It runs weekly, online workshops in creative arts including theatre, art, guitar, singing, poetry and screenwriting. These are open to anybody, regardless of ability or experience, and are free for current and former serving personnel, and their families.
One member said: “I’m very grateful for the opportunities provided by SAA and the hard work all of the team put in, often long hours, they are always there and able to offer advice and support.”
Road to recovery
SAA works with actors, directors, producers, dancers, writers, poets and artists to create opportunities for participants to fulfil their artistic potential. This may be part of a recovery process, it may provide training for a step into a new industry or it may be to help support the transition into civilian life.
Many members have gone on to professional acting careers, become published writers and sung at high-profile events. Members have also grown in confidence and many have made significant strides in their recovery process.
Another member said: “A big thank you to everyone at SAA. I’ve enjoyed every workshop I’ve tried and had the chance to meet some interesting people.”
Go to soldiersartsacademy.org to find out how you can get involved.
SAA will be premiering its stage adaptation of Sir Michael Morpurgo’s children’s novel Little Manfred at the Polka Theatre, London from 22 to 30 October – polkatheatre.com/event/little-manfred, before going on to perform at Alnwick Theatre in Northumberland early next year.