Getting creative

Hello All and welcome to my rather chilly kitchen. I hope that the snow hasn't been terribly disruptive or problematic for any of you. London hasn't been too badly affected, although I have participated in a couple of rounds of pavement ballet when on my way to the Tube. Fun for onlookers, I'm sure.

When I haven't been slipping and sliding my way to the station, I've been concentrating on RTC's 2010 education programme. We've created a range of performances and workshop sessions aimed at schools and community groups, which focus on different elements of the Gypsy/Romany/Traveller experience. The performances — some plays, some poetry — are based on the ideas of culture, discrimination, history, and identity; the workshop sessions that follow them explore these themes in greater depth and give participants the opportunity to discuss what they've seen and heard, both amongst themselves and with the Gypsy/Romany/Traveller cast. I've had the opportunity to produce some creative and thought-provoking educational materials and I'm looking forward to meeting the actors and getting their opinions early next year.

I've also met with our web designer to discuss the Romany Theatre Company website, and some changes that I want to make to it. It's not quite there yet, but I'll let you know as soon as it is.

If you celebrate Christmas, I hope that you have a peaceful and fulfilling holiday with those closest to you. If, like me, you don't celebrate Christmas, I hope that you have an opportunity to relax for a few days with people whom you love.

- Daniela