A Creative Hub in Sheffield which is making theatre and arts more accessible has welcomed more than 4,500 people through its doors during its first year.
Utopia Theatre Creative Hub opened on Rockingham Gate last September, and is a space open to people with a passion for African theatre and culture to come together and enjoy music, dance and theatrical experiences. It’s also a place where artists are encouraged and supported to learn new creative skills in a welcoming environment, opening the doors for future talent.
Since opening, more than 14 stand-out community events have been held in the space, as well as five productions. The hub, which is home to a popular Youth Academy and a 30-strong network of people involved in the Community Ensemble and Death and the King’s Horseman Ensemble, also hosts regular dance classes and Open Mic Nights.
The Utopia Theatre Learning Club, which will run year round for 9 to19-year-olds, launched last month – delivering core learning skills such as IT, reading the arts, writing and reading – every Saturday. Utopia Theatre has also introduced an Artist Development Programme, supporting emerging theatre-makers of African and African Caribbean descent to develop and stage productions by providing workshops, grants, artistic direction and connections into the industry. The organisation has a committed group of young people attending its Youth Academy, and places for this are free and still available for anybody who is interested. Travel for parents and children is paid for, opening up opportunities to all who would like to attend.
Data shows that more than 4,500 people have visited the premises to either participate in or watch events, shows and workshops.
Mojisola Kareem, CEO and Artistic Director, said: “It’s been a phenomenal year. We’ve had such a fun and inspiring first 12 months which has been hugely valuable for so many people. Our space really is a hive of activity, bursting with life and creativity every day of the week. The true beauty is that many people who are now regularly participating in events and taking part in productions previously felt like theatre and arts was not open to them. It’s so important to make sure the African diaspora is represented in the arts and we stand firm in making sure that inclusivity becomes the norm in this industry.
“My vision was to showcase just how much being immersed in song, dance, music and so much more can enable people to collaborate on incredible projects. Those joining us regularly are developing their skills and confidence, paving the way for them to be far more immersed in watching and performing at theatres across the UK; in turn supporting a much more diverse industry. This will always be a safe and welcoming space for everybody to come together.”
Gonul Kapar, who has attended sessions at Utopia Theatre’s Creative Hub with family members, said: “The kids love the space because it’s full of energy, with a great atmosphere, while also being a safe place. There is a real feeling of acceptance while being able to enjoy art and creative activities at Utopia Theatre’s Creative Hub. I love a multicultural experience and it’s fantastic to bring the community together in this way.”
During the last year, Utopia Theatre’s Creative Hub has hosted events including a celebration of Africa Day, Migration Matters and a Wole Soyinka celebration day. The charitable organisation has built up relationships with many community groups, which also host events in the space. This includes the University of Sheffield, Opus, SAVTE and Sheffield Culture Collective and many more.
Rebecca Ball, Area Director North, Arts Council England, said “What a fantastic achievement for Utopia Theatre’s Creative Hub to have received so many visitors and participants in its first year. We want everyone to be able to enjoy and take part in creativity and culture, wherever they live and whatever their circumstances, so it’s great to see that so many people have come together to enjoy and get involved in African theatre and culture. The opportunities for young people to develop new skills as part of the Learning Club and Artist Development Programme are inspiring and we’re proud to support Utopia Theatre as part of our national portfolio.”
Tom Bird, CEO OF Sheffield Theatres, added: “Utopia Theatre have done a phenomenal job in providing a joyous space for communities in Sheffield to explore and enjoy African diaspora theatre and culture. We have worked alongside Utopia Theatre for many years and this latest achievement is testament to how they have flourished in the city and beyond. Having visited the Creative Hub a number of times, I can only encourage more people to take part in the fantastic projects they have on offer.”
Utopia Theatre, which stages productions of international and national importance, is an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation (NPO). Its creative team are in the final stages of a UK-wide tour of Anna Hibiscus’ Song. The company is preparing to stage Death and the King’s Horseman, directed by Mojisola Kareem and written by Wole Soyinka, in February 2025. The co-production with Sheffield Theatres will be performed at The Crucible and tickets are available now.
The Utopia Theatre Creative Hub, adorned with the 54 flags representative of the African continent and home to hundreds of African artefacts and musical instruments, has received grant funding from organisations such as Esmee Fairbairn, Arts Council England, Freshgate Trust Foundation, National Lottery, Unity Theatre Trust, Sheffield City Council and Centre for Equality and Inclusion. Its space also includes a gallery for displaying artist work such as painting, photography and mixed media to help promote and support local artists.
Utopia Theatre is currently looking for Trustees to join its board, helping to drive the future direction of the organisation. For more information, visit: www.utopiatheatre.co.uk/jobs/board-of-trustee-vacancy/
To get involved in the vast array of things happening at Utopia Theatre’s Creative Hub, or for more information on upcoming productions, visit: https://www.utopiatheatre.co.uk/
