Chester's Storyhouse arts centre has transformed the former Boots store in the nearby Forum shopping centre into Studio by Storyhouse, a multi-purpose space for creative activities and rehearsals.
Until now members have met in locations inside Storyhouse, but the service has outgrown the building. The two-storey space will give the Young Storyhouse team its own bespoke base for work and special programmes, events and performances, which will then be seen in the main Storyhouse venue.
It means Storyhouse can establish a broader programme for young people, including drop-in activities such as spoken word workshops. The cente will also be used as a rehearsal space for the main house.
Storyhouse’s work with young people has expanded since it opened its doors in the city centre in 2017. Young Storyhouse programmes create opportunities for young people, including working with professionals, developing skills, building confidence and working creatively. Along with three theatre companies – a youth theatre for 5 to-13-year-olds and 13 to 17-year-olds, and
Storyhouse Young Company for 17 to 25-year-olds – Young Storyhouse also includes programmes for Young Leaders (skill development), Young Catalysts, Young Programmers, Young Readers and The Agency. Many participants are referred to Storyhouse by local social services. The programme reaches some of most of the disadvantaged and under-served young people in the city.
Creative director Suzie Henderson said: “Having too many members is a fantastic problem to have, but our young people’s activities and projects have grown and grown since we opened six years ago and we just don’t have enough room any more.
“The new Studio by Storyhouse is two storeys and has very large, light and airy spaces that are totally flexible, so we can use them however we want and for whatever activity."
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