Performing Arts Connect
When the world went into lockdown in 2020, the performing arts were among the many industries hit hardest by the pandemic. Theatres closed, productions were cancelled, and countless events and classes came to a sudden halt. For young people, this not only meant the suspension of extracurricular activities and social gatherings but also the abrupt loss of opportunities to develop their passion for the arts. Recognising the profound impact this would have on aspiring performers and creative individuals in the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead, the Kevin Cruise Foundation quickly took action to bridge the gap. Thus, the Performing Arts Connect project was born.
The initiative was designed to offer free, one-on-one performing arts courses online to people of all ages, especially those living within the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead, Slough, Taplow, Eton Wick, and Burnham. The project aimed to provide an outlet for young people who had seen their arts education disrupted, while also supporting local industry professionals who were out of work due to the pandemic. The Foundation set out to continue fostering creativity in the community while supporting the livelihoods of those within the arts sector.
A New Opportunity in Challenging Times
In the wake of the lockdown, the Kevin Cruise Foundation's founder, Martin Cabble-Reid, saw an opportunity to help lift spirits in a time of uncertainty. “This is just our way of trying to bring a smile to everyone’s faces and brighten your day in these tough times,” Martin shared. The response was overwhelming. The first round of online courses received a fantastic response, and the Foundation was able to offer a broad range of workshops. From TV acting to voice-over work, from playwriting to stage management, the program catered to a variety of interests and allowed participants to explore new creative avenues.
The sessions were conducted by a talented team of industry professionals, many of whom also lived in the local area. These experts, many of whom were not working due to the shutdown of the entertainment industry, donated their time to provide the next generation of performers with invaluable learning experiences. Martin explained, “So many wonderful creative people within RBWM are currently not working due to the industry shut down and don’t have any income coming in to support them. So, to do our bit to help the arts sector, the Kevin Cruise Foundation will pay all our professionals for their time.”
Courses that Inspire and Educate
The Performing Arts Connect project featured a diverse array of subjects, making it possible for individuals to explore various aspects of the performing arts. Aspiring actors could engage in TV Acting and Stage Management classes, while future singers could hone their vocal skills. Other courses included musical direction, dance, magic, and even piano lessons. One of the most popular courses was “Applying to Drama School,” which gave young hopefuls expert advice on how to navigate the competitive and often challenging process of getting into drama school. By offering a wide range of subjects and disciplines, the Foundation aimed to ensure that every participant found something that sparked their passion.
Moreover, the Performing Arts Connect initiative was open to all ages, which meant that individuals of different backgrounds and experiences were able to take part. Whether they were just beginning to explore the arts or were seasoned performers looking to refine their skills, the program provided a unique platform for everyone.
A Community-Driven Response
One of the standout features of the project was its strong community focus. The Foundation worked with local creatives and professionals, enabling them to continue working while giving back to the community. Local professionals, who were facing the same struggles as many others during the pandemic, were paid for their time, ensuring that the initiative supported both local talent and aspiring artists. By working together, the Foundation helped keep the arts alive during an incredibly challenging time and provided a sense of hope for both the teachers and the students.
“The arts are an essential part of our community,” said Martin Cabble-Reid. “Even in times of crisis, creativity is something that can keep us connected, bring joy, and provide a sense of purpose. We wanted to do our part to make sure that young people still had access to quality performing arts education.”
A Bright Future for the Arts
While the project was initially a response to the unique challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, it has since become a cornerstone of the Foundation's ongoing work. The success of Performing Arts Connect has demonstrated the importance of offering arts education to young people, particularly those who might not otherwise have access to it. The Foundation’s commitment to making the arts accessible, irrespective of background or financial means, has enabled many young people to discover a new passion or deepen their existing skills.
As the world has adjusted to life after lockdown, the Foundation has continued to offer online learning opportunities, reaching even more individuals in need of creative outlets and career guidance. This is particularly important for young people considering a future in the arts, a field that often feels inaccessible due to the lack of clear guidance and support. That’s why the Foundation is now offering something new for aspiring young performers: Zoom sessions with industry professionals.
Making a Difference, One Session at a Time
By expanding the Performing Arts Connect project, the Kevin Cruise Foundation continues to offer vital opportunities for young people within the community. Whether they’re learning a new skill, refining their craft, or gaining industry insights, these opportunities are making a real difference in the lives of young aspiring artists. The Foundation’s ongoing commitment to the arts ensures that, even in times of uncertainty, young people can find support, encouragement, and inspiration in the world of performance.
For those interested in exploring a career in the arts, applying for a one-on-one Zoom session is simple. The Kevin Cruise Foundation continues to provide a space where passion for the arts can thrive, helping young people develop into the next generation of talented performers, directors, and creatives.
When the world went into lockdown in 2020, the performing arts were among the many industries hit hardest by the pandemic. Theatres closed, productions were cancelled, and countless events and classes came to a sudden halt. For young people, this not only meant the suspension of extracurricular activities and social gatherings but also the abrupt loss of opportunities to develop their passion for the arts. Recognising the profound impact this would have on aspiring performers and creative individuals in the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead, the Kevin Cruise Foundation quickly took action to bridge the gap. Thus, the Performing Arts Connect project was born.
The initiative was designed to offer free, one-on-one performing arts courses online to people of all ages, especially those living within the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead, Slough, Taplow, Eton Wick, and Burnham. The project aimed to provide an outlet for young people who had seen their arts education disrupted, while also supporting local industry professionals who were out of work due to the pandemic. The Foundation set out to continue fostering creativity in the community while supporting the livelihoods of those within the arts sector.
A New Opportunity in Challenging Times
In the wake of the lockdown, the Kevin Cruise Foundation's founder, Martin Cabble-Reid, saw an opportunity to help lift spirits in a time of uncertainty. “This is just our way of trying to bring a smile to everyone’s faces and brighten your day in these tough times,” Martin shared. The response was overwhelming. The first round of online courses received a fantastic response, and the Foundation was able to offer a broad range of workshops. From TV acting to voice-over work, from playwriting to stage management, the program catered to a variety of interests and allowed participants to explore new creative avenues.
The sessions were conducted by a talented team of industry professionals, many of whom also lived in the local area. These experts, many of whom were not working due to the shutdown of the entertainment industry, donated their time to provide the next generation of performers with invaluable learning experiences. Martin explained, “So many wonderful creative people within RBWM are currently not working due to the industry shut down and don’t have any income coming in to support them. So, to do our bit to help the arts sector, the Kevin Cruise Foundation will pay all our professionals for their time.”
Courses that Inspire and Educate
The Performing Arts Connect project featured a diverse array of subjects, making it possible for individuals to explore various aspects of the performing arts. Aspiring actors could engage in TV Acting and Stage Management classes, while future singers could hone their vocal skills. Other courses included musical direction, dance, magic, and even piano lessons. One of the most popular courses was “Applying to Drama School,” which gave young hopefuls expert advice on how to navigate the competitive and often challenging process of getting into drama school. By offering a wide range of subjects and disciplines, the Foundation aimed to ensure that every participant found something that sparked their passion.
Moreover, the Performing Arts Connect initiative was open to all ages, which meant that individuals of different backgrounds and experiences were able to take part. Whether they were just beginning to explore the arts or were seasoned performers looking to refine their skills, the program provided a unique platform for everyone.
A Community-Driven Response
One of the standout features of the project was its strong community focus. The Foundation worked with local creatives and professionals, enabling them to continue working while giving back to the community. Local professionals, who were facing the same struggles as many others during the pandemic, were paid for their time, ensuring that the initiative supported both local talent and aspiring artists. By working together, the Foundation helped keep the arts alive during an incredibly challenging time and provided a sense of hope for both the teachers and the students.
“The arts are an essential part of our community,” said Martin Cabble-Reid. “Even in times of crisis, creativity is something that can keep us connected, bring joy, and provide a sense of purpose. We wanted to do our part to make sure that young people still had access to quality performing arts education.”
A Bright Future for the Arts
While the project was initially a response to the unique challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, it has since become a cornerstone of the Foundation's ongoing work. The success of Performing Arts Connect has demonstrated the importance of offering arts education to young people, particularly those who might not otherwise have access to it. The Foundation’s commitment to making the arts accessible, irrespective of background or financial means, has enabled many young people to discover a new passion or deepen their existing skills.
As the world has adjusted to life after lockdown, the Foundation has continued to offer online learning opportunities, reaching even more individuals in need of creative outlets and career guidance. This is particularly important for young people considering a future in the arts, a field that often feels inaccessible due to the lack of clear guidance and support. That’s why the Foundation is now offering something new for aspiring young performers: Zoom sessions with industry professionals.
Making a Difference, One Session at a Time
By expanding the Performing Arts Connect project, the Kevin Cruise Foundation continues to offer vital opportunities for young people within the community. Whether they’re learning a new skill, refining their craft, or gaining industry insights, these opportunities are making a real difference in the lives of young aspiring artists. The Foundation’s ongoing commitment to the arts ensures that, even in times of uncertainty, young people can find support, encouragement, and inspiration in the world of performance.
For those interested in exploring a career in the arts, applying for a one-on-one Zoom session is simple. The Kevin Cruise Foundation continues to provide a space where passion for the arts can thrive, helping young people develop into the next generation of talented performers, directors, and creatives.
