Authors: Frankston Arts Centre
Year: 2013
Event: 2013 TheMHS Awards
Subject:
Type of resource: TheMHS Awards
Award state: VIC
Award level: Silver
Award category: Mental Health Promotion or Mental Illness Prevention Program or Project
Abstract: Frankston Arts Centre (FAC) teamed up with children’s theatre specialists to develop a touring theatrical production based on popular local children’s author Nicky Johnston’s book Go Away, Mr Worrythoughts! to help students cope with anxiety and depression.
This innovative project visits primary schools throughout Victoria as a mobile incursion performance. A team of three professional actors perform the 40 minute show and conduct a 10 minute Question and Answer forum to encourage positive discussions with children and teachers. FAC has also developed a Teacher Resource Kit (downloadable from FAC website) filled with addition complimentary activities for teachers to conduct in the classroom. The Go Away, Mr Worrythoughts! Production is currently in its third year of touring and has been very well received by children, parents, teachers and community organisations.
Description of Facility/Organisation: FAC is an inclusive venue with an ethos to aid mental health and wellbeing by increasing access to the arts. This ethos led the FAC to develop this production.
Whilst there is assistance for children aged 12+, there is a gap in resources for educating primary-aged children.
Go Away, Mr Worrythoughts Production annually services:
? 40 x primary schools (5000 students)
? 10 x public performances (1500 people)
? 1 x Royal Children’s Hospital (450 patients)
Budget:
The FAC project is a non for profit program, aiming to fund itself annually. The proposed income is $26,600 (approximately 20 shows of 2 tours p/a) with an expenditure of approximately $26,600/tour (including expenses).
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