Freefalling is Polka’s flagship project for engaging children who are experiencing challenging circumstances. For almost 20 years Freefalling has engaged children in Merton in weekly, bespoke drama workshops with the aim of helping them:
- Improve their social skills.
- Communicate their thoughts and ideas.
- Develop their interests.
- Work as a team.
- Gain confidence individually and in groups.
It’s overall purpose is to use theatre to help vulnerable young people better understand their identity and environment. This project is fully funded and is for young people aged 9-16.
Sessions are 90 minutes and take place throughout the Spring and Summer terms in Polka’s state of the art creative learning rooms. Children learn drama skills such as improvisation, script writing, comedy and dance. They also benefit from masterclasses by industry professionals throughout the year. The project culminates in a week long residency that ends with a performance on Polka Theatre’s stage. This is a celebration of the achievements and journey that the group has gone on throughout the year.
Children do not need any drama experience.
“Freefalling has not only supported my daughter’s mental health but mine. Seeing her so happy has improved life at home so much”
Parent Comment
“It is amazing to see how much the Freefalling team put in place to support him”
Referral Partner
Freefalling is split into two groups:
Freefalling Foundation 8-11 (Year 5 & 6)
Freefalling Young Company 11-16 (Year 7 to 11)
Places are only allocated by referral. If you would like to make a referral for either of our Freefalling projects please contact Dominic Hedges, Freefalling Manager.
We would like to thank our committed current Freefalling supporters:
Clarion Futures
Frazer Trust
The Charles Skey Charitable Trust
The Dorus Trust
Wimbledon District Nursing and Midwifery Benevolent Society
Icon Solutions
Wimbledon Offices
The Arts Society Wimbledon
Lendscape