So why BlueBoxt? Founder Colin Bailey explains.
Blue Boxt Productions started life as A Youth Theatre group when I was in my school sixth form (over twenty years ago now!). The group stayed with me and has developed in to a voluntary community group to support young people, of all ages(!), develop their skills in the performing arts.
“ We are a voluntary group which supports a number of community music making and live performance skills (‘stage craft’) workshops for young people in Wensleydale and Swaledale. Where possible these culminate in live performance showcases at local events such as Hawes Christmas Lights, Hunton Steam Gathering, Richmond Jazz Festival and Leyburn 1940s Weekend. ”
The current phase of the project launched in 2008 and came about by a group of young people seeking support to set up a rock band. Though those founder members have moved onto to higher education their request hasn't and we continue to enthuse and support young people in their music making ambitions. New participants continue to be identified and register for sessions which is fantastic news. We have young people preparing for GCSE, AS and A Level and applying to university to pursue qualifications in music and the performing arts and others who just love to make music for fun and enjoy the pleasure it gives to others. Sessions compliment the different styles of music offered by the Local Education Authority through schools and music service and local choral groups, orchestras and brass bands. Where possible, all adults/ musicians provide their skills and expertise on a voluntary basis.
2013 saw our first cohorts become graduates and start their working careers in the creative industries sector. Since the provision began we have provided support to around seventy young people assisting with exam preparation, Scouts and Guides badges, Duke of Edinburgh skills, university applications, instrument loans and general mentoring and support to assist their development. We encourage young people to take part not just in the performance aspects of activities but the management and decision making elements as well.
We rely on donations, funding and grant support and are thankful to our growing number of individual donors, funding and support organisations who make it all possible.
Blueboxt Productions was co-founded by Colin Bailey and West End Actor Jonathan Broadbent while at Giggleswick School in 1997 as a Performing Arts group. Upon leaving school they agreed that the organisation would continue to provide mentoring and support for all ages who shared an interest in community and voluntary music and drama.