ManPAC will be bringing the arts back into the lives of children and older residents who live in Mandurah and explore the impact that these activities can have on their sense of belonging, well-being and connectedness

The arts have been particularly hard hit with many groups and activities being cancelled due to COVID, meaning that a once loved and important part of our community has been missing.  ManPAC will be bringing the arts back into the lives of children and older residents who live in Mandurah and explore the impact that these activities can have on their sense of belonging, well-being and connectedness; in a 10 week program called ‘The Art of Connection’ project which will run from February to April 2022 for 10 weeks on Tuesdays from 10am – 12pm

Inspired by “Old People’s Home for 4 Year Olds” an ABC program addressing Australia’s loneliness epidemic, ManPAC is passionate about facilitating the intergenerational group for children and older residents who would benefit greatly from coming together to share in the power of the arts, to build connections and find out more about each other.

ManPAC has established this opportunity for young children (pre-school age) to work with a trio of local, experienced and talented artists to develop artistic skills and benefit from the wisdom of their older residents in our community.

The artists are all experienced makers, creators and performers. Elli Moody – An artist/illustrator with extensive experience working in community arts, running inclusive projects and workshops with adults, children & those living with intellectual and psychosocial disabilities.

Kerry Davies – For over 40 years Kerry has immersed herself in sewing, creating, art, baking, family, community, volunteering. Kerry is an expert facilitator and excels at making a space for people to have a positive creative experience.

Mark Storen – Has over 17 years’ experience as a performer, writer, director and educator both nationally and internationally. A founding Member of Whiskey & Boots he has also worked on an intergenerational project with The Globe Town Project.

Parents/guardians will be able to meet the artists and older participants before the start of the project and parents are to remain on site during the sessions and will be able to take part in parenting activities as well as arts and wellbeing workshops or just enjoy a relaxing coffee.

Childcare professionals from Anglicare will be on-site for the whole project to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our young participants.

If you know a 4 year old who may be away from extended family and grandparents, someone who would benefit from connection with some older people?  Or an older person who is over the age of 65, maybe a neighbour who is feeling isolated and away from family, someone who would benefit from connection with young vibrant people, please contact the Mandurah Performing Arts Centre for more details or submit the relevant forms below.

CHILD APPLICATION.

SENIOR APPLICATION

Mandurah Performing Arts Centre has been awarded funding by the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries (DLGSC) Culture and the Arts (WA) and Lotterywest Creative Communities COVID-19 Recovery – 2020 to 2021 funding program, for this ‘The Art of Connection’ project.

For more information please call Mark Labrow on 9550 3986 mark.labrow@manpac.com.au or Alison Pinder 9550 3920 alison.pinder@manpac.com.au