Former Parmiter’s School student Emma Tomlinson is hoping to raise the confidence of young people in South Oxhey by teaching them drama skills.

“I am passionate about providing South Oxhey children the opportunity to belong to their very own drama group and be proud of their achievements in the arts,“ says Emma. “South Oxhey has previously been put on the map for being on the TV show The Choir and I feel it has a huge amount to offer. The South Oxhey Choir did a fantastic job in building an artistic movement in the area and showing there is a need and want in the local community for groups like that.“

Emma, 25, did her drama degree at Exeter University and has just moved to Bushey. She grew up in Abbots Langley, where she was a member of the Young People’s Drama Centre from the age of seven. She took over the running of the group four years ago and has produced plays at Henderson Hall in Abbots Langley as well as taking a group of students to perform WithinTent, a play co-written by Emma and cast members, at the Edinburgh Fringe in 2010.

Working as a freelance theatre facilitator, Emma runs drama and circus skills workshops for schools and groups. She is holding workshops in Oxhey Wood Primary School to raise awareness for the group, which is open to ages seven to 14.

“Through drama there’s a really great opportunity to have loads of fun and make friends while building confidence through communication and teamwork games.
“The aim is to work towards a performance if the interest is there as that would be such a great experience for them. My main priority is making sure access to the arts is available and affordable to everyone.

“There’s also an opportunity for young people to be involved in prop and costume-making, helping backstage and on the technical side with lighting and sound. I’m also hoping to get parents get involved as chaperones and in backstage management.“

The South Oxhey Drama Centre is holding a free taster session at All Saint’s Church Hall, Gosforth Lane, South Oxhey on Monday, October 8 and classes will begin from Monday, November 5. Details: 07930 362631 or email: e.tomlinson21@googlemail.com