Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.0.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # CHOL Theatre & Arts ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://wearechol.co.uk/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [News](https://wearechol.co.uk/news/) - [Our Biennale Young Producers](https://wearechol.co.uk/our-biennale-young-producers/) - Chol is working in partnership with The Children’s Art School to recruit five young people aged 16 - 24 to become Our Biennale Young Producers and help shape an arts festival for children and young people across Kirklees. Our Biennale is led by The Children’s Art School and brings together children, young people, artists, schools - [The Chol-Operative: Six Years of Collaborative Leadership, Reflection and Learning](https://wearechol.co.uk/the-chol-operative-six-years-of-collaborative-leadership-reflection-and-learning/) - Six years ago, Chol made the decision not to recruit a new CEO. At the time, this felt both exciting and slightly terrifying. Our long-standing CEO was stepping down, and as a small team and board we found ourselves sitting with a rare opportunity: rather than simply recreating the structure we had inherited, we paused - [What Happens When Young People Lead Culture in Huddersfield](https://wearechol.co.uk/what-happens-when-young-people-lead-culture-in-huddersfield/) - A space for conversation, creativity and critical thinking During the February half term, MakerWorld in Huddersfield became a space for young people to come together and ask some big questions. As part of OffScript: Youth Power Week, young people took part in a series of creative workshops across the town, exploring filmmaking with Studio Bokehgo, - [Punk Suffragette](https://wearechol.co.uk/punk-suffragette/) - Community Cast Call Out – Sheffield “Women’s voices screaming to get out.” Chol are coming to Heeley City Farm on Saturday 14 March to perform Punk Suffragette - and we’re inviting people across Sheffield to be part of it. The campaign for female suffrage was born right here in Sheffield in 1851, when the Sheffield - [Offscript: what change will you make?](https://wearechol.co.uk/offscript-what-change-will-you-make/) - Human Rights & Global Conflict Amnesty International UKhttps://www.amnesty.org.ukCampaigns, petitions, human rights education. Human Rights Watchhttps://www.hrw.orgResearch & reports on global human rights violations. Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP)https://www.map.org.ukHumanitarian support. International Rescue Committee (UK)https://www.rescue.org/ukSupport for people affected by conflict and displacement. Anti-Racism & Social Justice Stand Up To Racism UKhttps://www.standuptoracism.org.uk Hope Not Hatehttps://www.hopenothate.org.ukCountering extremism & hate politics. - [OFFSCRIPT: Youth Power Week is coming to Huddersfield!](https://wearechol.co.uk/offscript-youth-power-week-is-coming-to-huddersfield/) - This February, Huddersfield town centre is getting a creative takeover - and you’re invited. - [Introducing the Evaluation Geek Club: A New Space for Curious, Creative Evaluation](https://wearechol.co.uk/introducing-the-evaluation-geek-club-a-new-space-for-curious-creative-evaluation/) - On 21 August, more than 25 artists, educators, evaluators, and cultural practitioners logged on for something brand new: the Evaluation Geek Club. Together we took our first steps toward creating a warm, down-to-earth online community where evaluation is approached with creativity and care. Why Geek Club? At Chol, we believe evaluation is integral to community - [Evaluation Geek Club](https://wearechol.co.uk/evaluation-geek-club-2/) - Thursday 19 February 2026 9:30–10:15am - [Cholavan Awarded Unlimited Micro Capital Grant to Expand Accessibility and Inclusion](https://wearechol.co.uk/cholavan-awarded-unlimited-micro-capital-grant-to-expand-accessibility-and-inclusion/) - We are beyond excited to share the incredible news that Chol has been awarded a WYCA Unlimited Micro Capital Grant to enhance the accessibility and inclusivity of the Cholavan! - [Why Chol said ‘no’ to a CEO ](https://wearechol.co.uk/why-chol-said-no-to-a-ceo/) - Five years ago we started very real conversations within a very small team about how we would approach the reality that our long term CEO would be stepping down in 2020. Our initial discussions started as you would imagine - do we offer this role internally? Or do we advertise the role? So how did - [Join Ella's Archive Group!](https://wearechol.co.uk/6893-2/) - [Daughters of the Coal](https://wearechol.co.uk/daughters-of-the-coal/) - We are excited to present our brand new show in collaboration with Clifton Park Museum. BOOK FREE TICKETS HERE - [Rewilding the Curriculum: A Conference for Creative Educators](https://wearechol.co.uk/rewilding-the-curriculum-a-conference-for-creative-educators/) - At Chol, we believe education is at its most powerful when it nurtures creativity, wellbeing, and collaboration. That's why we’re thrilled to announce Rewilding the Curriculum, a half-day conference for primary teachers, artists, and cultural partners passionate about creative approaches to learning. This in-person event, hosted in collaboration with Leeds Beckett University and Story Makers, - [Highlights from 2024: A Year of Boldness, Connection, and Creativity](https://wearechol.co.uk/highlights-from-2024-a-year-of-boldness-connection-and-creativity/) - As 2024 comes to an end, we’ve been reflecting on what an exhilarating year it’s been for Chol. From foot-stomping flash mobs to soul-stirring theatre, powerful workshops, and creative collaborations, it’s been a whirlwind of activity that has energised us through and through. Looking ahead, 2025 promises to be just as exciting, filled with lots - [Rewilding the curriculum](https://wearechol.co.uk/rewilding-the-curriculum/) - As we prepare for the next Rewilding the Curriculum conference on Friday 7 February 2025, in collaboration with Story Makers and Leeds Beckett University, we’re revisiting the beginnings of this inspiring initiative. The first-ever Rewilding the Curriculum event, held in June 2023, laid the groundwork for a movement that reimagines education, equipping educators with creative tools to nurture learner - [Stories on Wheels: The Cholavan Joins Kirklees Library Festival!](https://wearechol.co.uk/stories-on-wheels-the-cholavan-joins-kirklees-library-festival/) - We are hitting the road with the Cholavan, our travelling creative space, as part of the Cultural Heart Kirklees Library Festival! We’re bringing an exciting mix of drama, storytelling, and arts activities to St George’s Square and Macauley Street throughout March, offering families and community members the chance to explore what library spaces mean to - [Rewilding the Curriculum: Creative Pedagogies for Collective Wellbeing, Positive Relationships and Learner Agency ](https://wearechol.co.uk/rewilding-the-curriculum-creative-pedagogies-for-collective-wellbeing-positive-relationships-and-learner-agency/) - Blog written by Dr Lisa Stephenson Story Makers Conference 2024/25 in collaboration with Chol Theatre. Friday 7th February, 12-30-5.30 “The future, by definition, is unpredictable; but by being attuned to some of the trends now sweeping across the world we can learn – and help our children learn – to adapt to, thrive in, and - [Evaluation Geek Club](https://wearechol.co.uk/evaluation-geek-club/) - Connection, sharing and learning for artists, educators, and evaluators The team at Chol believe that evaluation is worth geeking out about and believe that (as with most things) we can all benefit by sharing and connecting with other like minded people in new ways. This is why we are launching the Evaluation Geek Club - - [Now Recruiting: Young Producers (Ages 16 – 24, Kirklees)](https://wearechol.co.uk/now-recruiting-young-producers-ages-16-24-kirklees/) - We’re looking for two passionate and creative young people aged 16 – 24 from Kirklees to join us as Young Producers for Teen Takeover, a new week long event happening during February half term 2026. As part of this paid internship, you’ll work alongside Chol Theatre and The Children’s Art School to plan, create and deliver a programme of exciting events and activities designed by and for young - [Rotherham’s young people invited to join bold new youth theatre ‘mash-up’](https://wearechol.co.uk/rotherhams-young-people-invited-to-join-bold-new-youth-theatre-mash-up/) - Young people from across Rotherham are invited to take over the Civic Theatre on Saturday 15 November for Cast Offs Creative Mash-Up - a new youth theatre festival celebrating Rotherham’s Children’s Capital of Culture. Developed in collaboration with the Children's Capital of Culture, the free one day event will fill the Civic with workshops, performances, - [Echoes of Ella's Peas](https://wearechol.co.uk/echoes-of-ellas-peas/) - Heritage Detectives: A Digital Exhibition An Intergenerational Team of Heritage Detectives One of the most joyful parts of this project has been its intergenerational spirit. From Year 5 pupils at Parsons Cross C of E Primary School to the vibrant voices of the over-50s Women’s Steering Group, from young musicians at Sheffield Music School to - [Digital Archivist – Freelance Opportunity](https://wearechol.co.uk/digital-archivist-freelance-opportunity/) - Chol Theatre are celebrating the life and achievements of Ella Hudson-Gasking and are seeking an experienced Digital Archivist to document and preserve the outcomes of this exciting heritage project. From 1913, Ella was director of food giant Batchelors’, building the world’s largest pea-canning factory in Wadsley Bridge and blazing a trail for female entrepreneurs. We - [‘Celebration and pride’: Come find out all about Chol’s brand new show and Ella’s Peas at Pollen Market](https://wearechol.co.uk/ellas-peas-at-pollen-market/) - This March, Chol Theatre presented a brand new-theatre performance, The Mysterious Case of the Missing Mushy Peas Recipe. Co-created and performed by Year 5 of Parsons Cross C of E Primary School, the show celebrated the fascinating life and legacy of Ella Hudson-Gasking and the workers of the Batchelor’s Pea Factory. Just like the plot - [The Secret Recipe: A Theatrical Journey Through Sheffield’s Food and Factory Heritage](https://wearechol.co.uk/the-secret-recipe-a-theatrical-journey-throughsheffields-food-and-factory-heritage/) - We are so excited to present our brand-new theatre performance celebrating the fascinating lifeand legacy of Ella Hudson-Gasking and the workers of the Batchelor’s Pea Factory. Taking place atChilypep’s exciting new venue, this unique production has been created in collaboration with Year 5students from Parsons Cross C of E Primary School, musicians from Sheffield Music - [Exploring Sheffield’s History: Year 5’s Journey into the Past](https://wearechol.co.uk/exploring-sheffields-history-year-5s-journey-into-the-past/) - In January, Year 5 and their teachers had the incredible opportunity to join Carly, Ruth, and Kerry from the Sheffield Archive Team to dive deep into the rich history of our city. Together, we explored maps, historical sources, and fascinating materials that have helped us uncover the story of Ella Hudson-Gasking and the lives of - [Inspiring Happy Writers](https://wearechol.co.uk/inspiring-happy-writers-2/) - A professional development day for teachers, artists, and researchers exploring creative approaches to teaching. Date: Friday 23 May 2025Time: 9:30am - 4:00pmLocation: Grimm & Co’s Emporium of Stories, RotherhamCost: £50 (includes refreshments, snacks, lunch, and agoodie bag) Following the success of our 2023 event, Grimm & Co, Chol, and darts are coming back together to - [Exciting Paid Opportunities – Join Ella’s Peas Heritage Project!](https://wearechol.co.uk/exciting-paid-opportunities-join-ellas-peas-heritage-project/) - As part of Ella’s Peas - our new heritage project celebrating the life and achievements of pioneering businesswoman Ella Hudson-Gasking - we have two exciting new paid opportunities. We are looking for a Digital Archivist to document and curate project materials and a Film Archivist to capture our final exhibition as a 360° video. These roles will help preserve and - [Chol Goes Green!](https://wearechol.co.uk/chol-goes-green/) - The consequences of the climate crisis fall heaviest on future generations and eco-anxiety is on the rise in young people. As an organisation dedicated to enriching the lives of children and young people, we want to make a commitment to create work in the most environmentally responsible way within our capabilities. Therefore, we are launching - [Chol Celebrates Funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund for New Project celebrating Sheffield’s Unsung Businesswoman Ella Hudson-Gasking](https://wearechol.co.uk/chol-celebrates-funding-from-the-national-lottery-heritage-fund-for-new-project-celebrating-sheffields-unsung-businesswoman-ella-hudson-gasking/) - Chol is thrilled to announce successful funding of £41,715 from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, which supports a new, innovative new project, celebrating the extraordinary life of Ella Hudson-Gasking - Sheffield’s unsung industrial businesswoman who transformed food manufacturing in Britain. The year-long project is set to start in October 2024 and will spotlight the visionary - [Case Study: Building on My School The Museum  ](https://wearechol.co.uk/case-study-building-on-my-school-the-museum/) - In 2021 Chol partnered with Kirklees Museums & Galleries and The Children’s Art School to produce ‘My School is at the Museum’. This was an innovative schools offer which responded directly to the impacts of Covid-19 on learning. The week-long project saw Y5 pupils take up residence at the Tolson Museum, utilising the galleries as - [Being a Young Artist with Chol](https://wearechol.co.uk/being-a-young-artist-with-chol/) - A Blog by Kerry Lindeque, Chol's Young Artist. I became a Young Artist in an unconventional way. In the past, my interest in arts and theatre has been as a casual spectator and I never really considered myself a creative person. My passions had always lay with politics and feminism. That was how I got - [Chol's 2024 Partnership with Museums (Part 2)](https://wearechol.co.uk/chols-2024-partnership-with-museums-part-2/) - Imaginary Communities at The Cooper Gallery Following on from the success of last year’s partnership with Chol the Experience Barnsley team were keen to co-design some self-led education resources to be used by teachers with their classes in the future for short flexible sessions within the Cooper Gallery. After further discussion it was agreed that - [Chol's 2024 Partnership with Museums (Part 1)](https://wearechol.co.uk/chol-2024-museum-partnership-part1/) - Embedding an Imaginary Communities Approach with Kirklees Museums Kirklees Museums are a long-term ally of Chol and have regularly invited us to collaborate on projects which help to animate their collections for new audiences. Both parties were keen to build on their partnership and explore how Chol’s unique Imaginary Communities approach could enable children to - [Chol’s Board Away Day: Ice Lollies and Strategy!](https://wearechol.co.uk/chols-board-away-day-ice-lollies-and-strategy/) - Last Friday, the whole Chol team sat down with our amazing board of trustees in Sheffield Workstation for our annual Board Away Day. It was a hot day at the end of a hot week but we were determined to bring the whole team together to take a look at where Chol is, where it’s - [Ignite your imagination: Fun, free arts activities across Kirklees!](https://wearechol.co.uk/ignite-your-imagination-fun-free-arts-activities-across-kirklees/) - We’re thrilled to be hosting another summer of fabulous, fun, and free drop-in sessions for children, young people, and their families at various locations around Kirklees. Our trusty Cholavan will be bringing Maker World Summer Camps to different green spaces across North and South Kirklees, offering a variety of arts, crafts, drama, music, and dance - [‘It’s all about the journey!’](https://wearechol.co.uk/its-all-about-the-journey/) - Evaluation blog by Dr Becky Parry, an independent arts educator and the arts evaluation partner for Chol. It’s no coincidence that this blog about Chol’s professional development day arrivesas another series of ‘Sewing Bee’ gets into full swing. I have to admit to eagerlyanticipating the start of all the crafty, reality TV shows, enjoying exchangingcomments - [We are Women, We are Strong](https://wearechol.co.uk/soup-kitchen/) - Join us in the Soup Kitchen, where we are serving up local stories of those involved and affected by the mining strike of 1984/85. These are glimpses into memories and experiences of the past when people proudly came together to look after one another and honour their traditions. Through these audio pieces you will hear - [Piloting an Imaginary Communities Approach with Museums](https://wearechol.co.uk/piloting-an-imaginary-communities-approach-with-museums/) - In 2023, we undertook two new collaborations which aimed to offer enhanced cultural experiences for children and develop the pedagogic practice of museum partners in relation to the access and inclusion of children. The case studies presented below share our experiences of working together and highlight what we learnt and what our next steps will - [Imaginary Communities Vignette's](https://wearechol.co.uk/imaginary-communities-vignettes/) - These beautiful vingettes have been produced by our evaluator Dr Becky Parry and illustrated by our design and illustration lead Ruth Dyer. They are an experimentation of storytelling, creative writing and illustration as tools to help us reflect on the impact of our work. Through these mediums, we explore how our unique pedagogies create moments - [Speak, Rage, Soar Programme](https://wearechol.co.uk/speak-rage-soar-programme/) - [Who inspires you to be bold?](https://wearechol.co.uk/how-are-you-bold/) - On Saturday 23 March we hit the streets of Sheffield, armed with curiosity and two simple questions: ‘Who inspires you to be bold?’ and ‘How are you bold?’. In anticipation of our show 'Speak, Rage, Soar', we set up camp in Cholavan at The Peace Gardens to chat to passersby, dreamers and game-changers alike and - [Come Join Us for a Day of Celebration and Expression at the Peace Garden in Sheffield!](https://wearechol.co.uk/come-join-us-for-a-day-of-celebration-and-expression-at-the-peace-garden-in-sheffield/) - This Saturday 23 March, marks an extraordinary day of celebration, movement, and empowerment in the heart of Sheffield's Peace Gardens. We invite you to join us for an experience that promises to rejuvenate your spirit and energise your soul. First up, at 12pm, prepare to be amazed by an incredible flash mob performance choreographed by - [Unleashing Creativity, Fueling Confidence: Chol's Impact Report 22/23](https://wearechol.co.uk/unleashing-creativity-fueling-confidence-chols-impact-report-22-23/) - This year, our impact report isn't just about numbers; it's a celebration of the creative revolution blossoming across Yorkshire. No fancy jargon, just real stories of young changemakers setting the world alight. We’ve seen playgrounds of possibility taking root, where laughter echoes and young hands let creativity take the lead. So grab a brew and - [A love letter to Aimee Gibbs: the ultimate angry girl](https://wearechol.co.uk/a-love-letter-to-aimee-gibbs-the-ultimate-angry-girl/) - Content Advisory TW: This blog includes references to sexual assault Blog by Young Artist, Kerry Lindeque. When I finished watching the final season of Netflix’s series Sex Education, all I could think about was how much I loved the story of Aimee Gibbs. In season one, she is the loveable and cheery best friend of - [Writing pages of possibilities at Inspiring Happy Writers](https://wearechol.co.uk/writing-pages-of-possibilities-at-inspiring-happy-writers/) - On Friday 10 November we partnered up with the fabulous Grimm & Co for our fully-booked CPD event, Inspiring Happy Writers, a practical training day for teachers and artists exploring imaginative approaches to teaching writing. Using drama, visual arts and story-making, this event aimed to give teachers and artists new, creative ideas to inspire young - [Making Time (as an act of care)](https://wearechol.co.uk/making-time/) - Making Time: Evaluation blog by Dr Becky Parry, an independent arts educator and the arts evaluation partner for Chol. What is an act of care? The answer to this question may seem simple, but Chol have been asking questions about care in the evaluation of their practice as equal playmakers in Imaginary Communities (IC). Much - [Chol in the Netherlands - Part 2](https://wearechol.co.uk/chol-in-the-netherlands-part-2/) - Co-directors Carly and Jess recently visited the Netherlands as part of our Imaginary Communities Intergenerational project, in an aim to share best practice and knowledge with knowledge institute Leyden Academy and cultural organisation, Amphion Theater. Here, Lieke, PHD student at Leyden Academy, tells us more. How the project began At Leyden Academy on Vitality and - [Chol in the Netherlands - Part 1](https://wearechol.co.uk/chol-in-the-netherlands-part-1/) - Carly and Jess, Co-Directors at Chol, recently went on a trip to the Netherlands as part of our Imaginary Communities (IC) Intergenerational project with Amphion Theater and Leyden Academy on Vitality and Aging. Carly talks about what they got up to, what they learned, and what's next in the Netherlands journey! How it all began - [Inspiring Happy Writers](https://wearechol.co.uk/inspiring-happy-writers/) - We're partnering up with Grimm & Co for Inspiring Happy Writers, a practical training day on 10 November 2023, exploring imaginative approaches to teaching writing for teachers and artists. If you are a primary teacher, researcher or artist interested in developing or learning new creative approaches to teaching literacy, this event is for you. About - [Boogying to the Bhangra beats at Daytimers](https://wearechol.co.uk/daytimers-boogying-to-the-bhangra-beats/) - On Saturday 15 September, we held Daytimers in Huddersfield, a vibrant performance packed with energy, music and dance to celebrate the secret underground music scene, Daytimers. This family-friendly show invited audiences of all ages to celebrate this extraordinary era. Following this, on Sunday, hundreds of people joined us for ‘Hi Celebrate - Heritage in the - [Daytimers - production week activities](https://wearechol.co.uk/daytimers-production-week-activities/) - Join us for Daytimers production week starting on Monday 11 September. During the week, we're hosting workshops and events to create our show Daytimers happening on Saturday 16 September at the Northern Quarter, Huddersfield. We still have limited space for community cast members, but there is no obligation to perform – these workshops are for - [Hi! Celebrate - Huddersfield Heritage Mile Trail](https://wearechol.co.uk/hi-celebrate-huddersfield-heritage-mile-trail/) - Join us on Sunday 17 September 2023 for a free, family-friendly event celebrating the history and culture of Kirklees through films, exhibition displays, stalls and a carnival performance. The event also includes the Heritage Mile Trail accompanied by musicians. The programme is as follows: 12pm - 2pm: Come along to the HIVE cafe to collect - [Daytimers](https://wearechol.co.uk/daytimers/) - Daytimers is a free, family-friendly show taking place on Saturday 16 September 2023 at the Northern Quarter, Huddersfield. The production has been thoughtfully crafted with stories and contributions from the vibrant Huddersfield community who attended the secret underground Bhangra music scene during the 80s and 90's. This dynamic performance weaves together music, dance and performance - [Flying Library](https://wearechol.co.uk/flying-library/) - Flying Library - travelling stories in new places Inspired by Joe Todd-Stanton's book The Comet, our recent project 'Flying Libraries' in partnership with Kirklees Libraries saw 90 Year 4 children from Beaumont School in Huddersfield creating their very own Comet trail. We transformed the Cholavan into the 'Flying Library', and through drama, story-telling and world building, - [Imaginary Communities at Bagshaw Museum](https://wearechol.co.uk/imaginary-communities-at-bagshaw-museum/) - On Tuesday 29 June we went on a day trip to Bagshaw Museum with East Bierley School, one of our second year partners in our Imaginary Communities Caring and Creative Schools project. The project aims to develop greater connections with local museum partners and showcase how Imaginary Communities can be embedded in a number of - [Summer pop-up sessions](https://wearechol.co.uk/summer-pop-up-sessions-with-the-childrens-art-school/) - Join our FREE pop-up sessions across Kirklees! We are delighted to be popping up in neighbourhoods across Kirklees with the Children's Art School for the third consecutive year. In addition to art-making and drama, this year children can join in with djembe drum workshops thanks to Kirklees Year of Music 2023. Summer pop-up session dates - [A Flock of Stories returns for a flying visit!](https://wearechol.co.uk/a-flock-of-stories-returns-for-a-flying-visit/) - PLEASE NOTE - THIS EVENT WAS CANCELLED DUE TO STORMS! NEW DATE TBC. Birds, Brass and Barnsley Tales (free entry!) - Games on our Lawn: can you hook-a-duck or win at the coconut shy? - Barnsley Brass Band play 1:30-2:30pm. Barnsley Brass - Watch our show, A Flock of Stories, a play of pits, people and - [Children Caring Powerfully: Agency in Imaginary Communities](https://wearechol.co.uk/children-caring-powerfully-agency-in-imaginary-communities/) - Children Caring Powerfully: Agency in Imaginary Communities - by Dr Becky Parry This blog is exploratory and the ideas are ‘in development’, but they were inspired by discussions with Imaginary Communities (IC) practitioners as part of the evaluation of the second year of the residency programme, funded by The Paul Hamlyn Foundation. Creating manifestos for - [Angry Girls: Art, Activism, and Rage](https://wearechol.co.uk/angry-girls-art-activism-and-rage/) - Angry Girls: Art, Activism and Rage Blog by Kerry Lindeque, Angry Girls Collective Project Assistant 'Anger is the assertion of rights and worth. It is communication, equality, and knowledge’ - Soraya Chemaly, Rage Becomes Her: The Power of Women’s Anger When talking about our Angry Girls project, this quote by Soraya Chemaly always comes to - [Imaginary Teachers' Club](https://wearechol.co.uk/imaginary-teachers-club/) - What is the Imaginary Teachers' Club? This year we are launching a brand-new programme, the 'Imaginary Teachers' Club'. This is a unique initiative which supports all teachers who have worked with an Imaginary Communities artist before (regardless of whether you have moved schools since we have worked together or not), to continue to develop their - [Being a Chol Associate - by Lauren Townsend](https://wearechol.co.uk/being-a-chol-associate-by-lauren-townsend/) - Being a Chol Associate As a Chol-Operative Associate, I have had the privilege of being part of an innovative leadership model that values everyone's input equally. This is a model that is based on the co-operative approach and empowers freelance associates to be involved in the decision-making process without the added responsibility and liability of - [Angry Girls creative writing workshop](https://wearechol.co.uk/angry-girls-creative-writing-workshop/) - We recently held the Angry Girls Collective: Silenced Stories creative writing workshop at Soft Ground, Sheffield. The workshop was facilitated by Rae de Soleil who gave us the tools to explore anger in a powerful and intimate way. We were lucky to hear hear readings from Rae's debut poetry book, 'Adulthood is a lifelong conversation - [Daytimers - call out for stories](https://wearechol.co.uk/daytimers-call-out-for-stories/) - Daytimers - call out for stories Did you or somebody you know attend the secret music movement ‘Daytimers’ back in the late 1980s or 1990s? The underground Bhangra scene was a place where young British Asians could hang out and dance to home-grown Bhangra music in a relaxed environment. Taking place in broad daylight, Daytimers - [Vicky's Reflections](https://wearechol.co.uk/vickys-reflections/) - As we enter April 2023, it seems particularly timely for me to take a moment to reflect on my life with Chol as I come back to work after maternity leave and I enter my eleventh year working for the company. I’ve given myself a rare quiet hour of indulgent reflection time to see where - [Bolly-Hudd: Hip-hop and Bollywood dance workshops](https://wearechol.co.uk/bolly-hudd-hip-hop-and-bollywood-dance-workshops/) - Did you know that dance helps reduce stress, increases levels of the feel good hormone serotonin, and helps develop new connections? Join us on various dates in May, June and July at the Chestnut Centre and Northfield Hall, Huddersfield to participate in our free Hip Hop and Bollywood dance workshops. These fun and energy-packed workshops ## Pages - [Homepage](https://wearechol.co.uk/) - Chol: creative journeys with young people and communities, guided by curiosity, connection and care. We nurture the next generation of creative change makers, creating spaces where children and young people feel powerful, valued and connected - shaping change together and learning along the way. What we do Our impact in numbers 397 In 2025, we - [Our People](https://wearechol.co.uk/who-we-are/our-people/) - Here’s the team… Chol Co-Directors Mandeep SamraStrive and Inclusivity Lead Mandeep Samra Strive and Inclusivity Lead E-mail: mandy@wearechol.co.uk Jess WoodheadYouth and Social Arts Lead Jess Woodhead Youth and Social Arts Lead E-mail: Jess@wearechol.co.uk Jess is a socially engaged facilitator with over 10 years of experience, specialising in working with young people and communities to drive meaningful social - [Chol-Operative](https://wearechol.co.uk/who-we-are/chol-operative/) - The Chol-Operative Collaborative leadership in practice The Chol-Operative is Chol’s collaborative leadership model. Developed through ongoing reflection and practice since 2020, it aims to create more accessible, transparent and shared approaches to leadership whilst recognising differing levels of responsibility, accountability and experience across roles. At its core is a commitment to equity of voice, collective - [Chol-Operative FAQ's](https://wearechol.co.uk/chol-operative-faqs/) - Is the Chol-Operative a flat structure? The Chol-Operative grew from experiments with flat and collaborative leadership structures. Over time, the organisation has evolved the model to recognise differing levels of responsibility, accountability and experience whilst maintaining a commitment to collaborative leadership and equity of voice. Does everyone make every decision? Not always - and that - [Privacy Policy](https://wearechol.co.uk/privacy-policy-2/) - Chol International Artswww.wearechol.co.uk Effective from: 1. Purpose 2. Scope 3. What Data We Collect 4. How We Use Personal Data 5. Lawful Bases for Processing 6. Data Sharing 7. Data Retention 8. Data Security 9. Your Rights 10. Complaints 11. Updates to this Policy 1. Purpose Chol International Arts (“we”, “our”, “us”) is committed to - [Get Involved](https://wearechol.co.uk/get-involved/) - Get Involved Opportunities to join in with us! We would love you to get creative with us! Our projects are built with the people and places we work in, full of shared stories, imagination and collaboration. Have a look at what’s happening and see where you might like to join us. Partnerships and Collaboration We’re - [Volunteer](https://wearechol.co.uk/get-involved/volunteer/) - Volunteer with us From time to experience, we’re always looking for more hands on deck, whether you want to be more involved in your community, or just feel passionately about our work and would like to help. If you love creative storytelling, connecting with your community, or helping young people find their voice, we’d love - [Strive](https://wearechol.co.uk/what-we-do/strive/) - Strive Strive is our Anti-Racist Strategy, our long term commitment to creating a more equitable, inclusive and caring organisation – one that actively challenges racism and celebrates diversity in all its forms. Our Anti-Racist Strategy This work deepened after 2020, when global movements for racial justice and the shared experiences of the pandemic brought long - [Young Chol-Operative](https://wearechol.co.uk/what-we-do/young-people/) - Young Chol-Operative Championing the next generation of creative changemakers. The Young Chol-Operative creates real pathways for young artists and producers to develop their skills, gain experience, and shape their own creative careers alongside the Chol team. How it works Each Young Chol-Operative role is closely linked to project delivery, meaning you’re involved in real, live - [Evaluation & Monitoring](https://wearechol.co.uk/what-we-do/evaluation-monitoring/) - Evaluation & Monitoring Curiosity, reflection and shared learning. At Chol, reflection and learning aren’t add-ons, they’re at the centre of everything we do. We see ourselves as an action research organisation: curious, questioning and always open to discovering how creativity and care can make the biggest difference for children, young people and communities. Every project - [Partner with Us](https://wearechol.co.uk/get-involved/partner-with-us/) - Partner with Us We’re always open to new partnerships, ideas and shared journeys We’re always open to conversations about collaboration, whether that means developing new ideas together or bringing more creative spark to existing projects. If our values or work resonate with you, please drop us an email – we’d love to connect. Our core - [The Cholavan](https://wearechol.co.uk/what-we-do/the-cholavan/) - The Cholavan Our mobile community creative space The Cholavan was born from a post-Covid pipe-dream - to take creativity out on the road and meet communities where they are. What began as a small idea became reality through our first ever crowdfunded project, powered by the generosity of our supporters and a grant from the - [Heritage & Community Arts](https://wearechol.co.uk/what-we-do/heritage-community-arts/) - Heritage & Community Arts Exploring belonging through creativity and local heritage. We work together with communities to uncover and share untold stories, celebrating local heritage and the people, places and memories that make each area unique. "Instead of listening to history, we’re doing history, we’re acting it out, we’re having to imagine it ourselves, and - [Education & Learning](https://wearechol.co.uk/what-we-do/education-learning/) - Education & Learning Reimagining education through creativity and care. Working alongside schools and teachers, we develop creative approaches that inspire curriculum change, nurture curiosity, and help build fairer, more inclusive classrooms. We have been working with schools for more than 15 years. During this time, we’ve developed our Caring and Creative Schools strategy, born from - [Imaginary Communities®](https://wearechol.co.uk/what-we-do/imaginary-communities/) - Imaginary Communities® Imaginary Communities® is a playful and inclusive story-making process that supports children to co-create imaginary worlds, take on their own unique characters, and share their ideas through the unfolding plot. Imagine walking into a classroom where stories fill the air and children and teachers work side by side to build whole new worlds. - [What We Do](https://wearechol.co.uk/what-we-do/) - What we do We work in everyday community and educational spaces Our approach is simple; we do things with people, not for them. We work alongside communities, schools and young people to co-create stories rooted in local life and heritage. We reflect, learn and share as we go, nurturing creativity and the next generation of - [Chol's Cornerstones ](https://wearechol.co.uk/who-we-are/chols-cornerstones/) - Chol's Cornerstones These are the four cornerstones that help us move closer to our mission. Education We believe creativity belongs at the heart of every school. We work with teachers and pupils to make sure every child and young person can experience the arts, no matter their background or postcode. Creative learning helps children grow - [Our Story](https://wearechol.co.uk/who-we-are/our-story/) - We’ve been around since 1989. Chol is a registered charity based in Yorkshire, with most of our work taking place in Kirklees, Barnsley, Rotherham and Sheffield. We work in everyday community and educational spaces, co-creating stories and projects rooted in local lives and heritage. Our work grows from curiosity and a drive to explore new - [Caring and Creative Schools Evaluation](https://wearechol.co.uk/what-we-do/evaluation-monitoring/caring-and-creative-schools-evaluation/) - We are currently in the fourth year of our Caring & Creative Schools Programme, funded by Paul Hamlyn Foundation, working with 16 partner schools across Yorkshire. Through our intensive Artist in Residency programmes in our lead schools, we are actively exploring how children are and become caring and engaged learners when given the opportunity to - [Evaluation Geek Club](https://wearechol.co.uk/evaluation-geek-club/) - The team at Chol believe that evaluation is worth geeking out about and believe that (as with most things) we can all benefit by sharing and connecting with other like minded people in new ways. This is why we are launching the Evaluation Geek Club – a brand new online community for the arts, cultural, - [Environmental Policy](https://wearechol.co.uk/environmental-policy/) - Environmental Policy Thinking about our impact on the world. The consequences of damaging our planet will fall the heaviest to future generations. Here’s how we’re trying to minimise our environmental impact. Eco-anxiety is on the rise with children’s mental health being seriously impacted over concerns about living in an uncertain world. As an organisation dedicated - [Support Us](https://wearechol.co.uk/support-us/) - Support Us Your support makes all the difference… Chol is a registered charity and an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation. Whilst this core funding is vital, it only covers part of what we do. We rely on additional support from trusts, foundations and individual donors to keep our work alive. Can you help us? - [Who We Are](https://wearechol.co.uk/who-we-are/) - We are Chol We are a dynamic and socially conscious charity with theatre, creativity, and children and young people at its heart. Based in Yorkshire since 1989, we have an international reputation for co-creating work from early years to early careers. We believe passionately in radical kindness, openness, collaboration, learning, inclusivity and equity. These values - [Events](https://wearechol.co.uk/get-involved/events/) - Take a look at our events page to find out what’s on. - [Contact Us](https://wearechol.co.uk/who-we-are/contact-us/) - If you have any questions, or just want to say hello, we’d love to hear from you. - [Data Protection](https://wearechol.co.uk/data-protection/) - Chol International Artswww.wearechol.co.uk Effective from: 1. Purpose 2. Scope 3. What Data We Collect 4. Lawful Bases for Processing 5. Data Use 6. Data Sharing 7. Data Storage and Retention 8. Children and Young People 9. Data Subject Rights 10. Responsibilities 11. Data Breaches 12. Policy Review 1. Purpose of this Policy Chol is committed - [Resources](https://wearechol.co.uk/resources/) - Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum. ## Categories - [Latest News](https://wearechol.co.uk/category/latest-news/) - [News](https://wearechol.co.uk/category/news/) - [Uncategorized](https://wearechol.co.uk/category/uncategorized/) - [Listen 52](https://wearechol.co.uk/category/listen-52/) - [Past Projects](https://wearechol.co.uk/category/past-projects/) - [Case Studies](https://wearechol.co.uk/category/case-studies/) - [Imaginary Communities](https://wearechol.co.uk/category/imaginary-communities/) - [HSHAZ](https://wearechol.co.uk/category/hshaz/) - [angry girls](https://wearechol.co.uk/category/angry-girls/) - [Care and Creativity](https://wearechol.co.uk/category/care-and-creativity/) - [Caring and Creative Curriculum](https://wearechol.co.uk/category/evaluation/) - [Evaluation](https://wearechol.co.uk/category/evaluation-2/) - [NPO](https://wearechol.co.uk/category/npo/) - [Audience](https://wearechol.co.uk/category/audience/) - [Current Projects](https://wearechol.co.uk/category/current-projects/) - [Workshops](https://wearechol.co.uk/category/workshop/) - [Our reflections](https://wearechol.co.uk/category/reflections/) - [Upcoming Events](https://wearechol.co.uk/category/upcoming-events/) - [Opportunities](https://wearechol.co.uk/category/opportunities/) - [Cholavan](https://wearechol.co.uk/category/cholavan/) - [Heritage](https://wearechol.co.uk/category/heritage/) - [Ellas Peas](https://wearechol.co.uk/category/ellas-peas/) - [Chol Goes Green](https://wearechol.co.uk/category/chol-goes-green/) - [Evaluation Stories](https://wearechol.co.uk/category/evaluation-stories/) - [Events](https://wearechol.co.uk/category/events/) - [Updates](https://wearechol.co.uk/category/updates/) ## Tags - [Chol](https://wearechol.co.uk/tag/chol/) - [Theatre in Sheffield](https://wearechol.co.uk/tag/theatre-in-sheffield/) - [Theatre in Yorkshire](https://wearechol.co.uk/tag/theatre-in-yorkshire/) - [creative](https://wearechol.co.uk/tag/creative/) - [heritage](https://wearechol.co.uk/tag/heritage/) - [Young people](https://wearechol.co.uk/tag/young-people/) - [heritage theatre](https://wearechol.co.uk/tag/heritage-theatre/) - [Barnsley](https://wearechol.co.uk/tag/barnsley/) - [Creative conference](https://wearechol.co.uk/tag/creative-conference/) - [Leeds conference](https://wearechol.co.uk/tag/leeds-conference/) - [Rewilding the curriculum](https://wearechol.co.uk/tag/rewilding-the-curriculum/) - [Story Makers conference 2025](https://wearechol.co.uk/tag/story-makers-conference-2025/) - [Teachers Conference](https://wearechol.co.uk/tag/teachers-conference/) - [creative opportunities in sheffield](https://wearechol.co.uk/tag/creative-opportunities-in-sheffield/) - [sheffield archivists](https://wearechol.co.uk/tag/sheffield-archivists/) - [sheffield videographer](https://wearechol.co.uk/tag/sheffield-videographer/) - [heritagelotteryfunded](https://wearechol.co.uk/tag/heritagelotteryfunded/) - [Cultural Heart Libraries festival](https://wearechol.co.uk/tag/cultural-heart-libraries-festival/) - [familes in huddersfield](https://wearechol.co.uk/tag/familes-in-huddersfield/) - [Free activites for kids](https://wearechol.co.uk/tag/free-activites-for-kids/) - [Kirklees libraries](https://wearechol.co.uk/tag/kirklees-libraries/)