NEWS: Call-out for over 50s in Bolton.

Call-out for over 50s in Bolton 

The Octagon needs your ideas as part of their ReAct programme 

The Octagon Theatre are launching a call-out for Community Creators as part of their ReAct initiative and are looking for ideas from people in Bolton aged 50+. Building upon the theatre’s already strong grounding of older people’s engagement work, ReAct is a National Lottery funded project working with over 50s in Bolton to set up new arts activities and help them become leaders in creating engagement work for their own age range. 

As part of the project the Octagon are looking for Community Creators, and want to hear from anyone who may have a creative idea to make a positive change in their community, and help keep connected during the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. 

The venue welcomes any ideas that can make a difference to people’s lives, from suggestions for online wellbeing workshops, possible hobby clubs and societies, to ways to get creative outdoors. 

Since ReAct launched earlier this year it has successfully developed the ReAct Music Sessions with Bolton Dementia Support – a series of fun and relaxed music sessions for those living with dementia, and ReAct Theatre Club – a fun and informal space for over 50s to watch, read and discuss theatre.

ReAct Producer, Caitlin Gleeson said: “The main aim of ReAct is to use creativity to reduce isolation and improve wellbeing for over 50s in Bolton. When we launched this project we had no idea the challenges that lay ahead with the Covid-19 pandemic, and it is more important than ever to ensure we stay connected with those who may be struggling in the current climate. We would love to hear any ideas you have that could be developed into projects to enrich and uplift the lives of the people of Bolton. You don’t need to have any experience in making projects happen, just a passion for your community. You might have a fully formed plan or your idea might just be a spark of inspiration. Whatever stage you’re at, get in touch! We’ll provide bespoke support, and we’ll make sure that all activities comply with current social distancing guidelines.” 

For anyone with an idea and interested in becoming a Community Creator please contact Caitlin with the below information:

Either send via email to caitlin.gleeson@octagonbolton.co.uk or call 07930 689292 – please note this phone is available between 9.30am - 5.30pm, Monday - Wednesday, but please leave a voicemail outside these times. 

Due to limited resources the Octagon will not be able to support every idea but will be in touch with everyone who applies and will support as many as possible.