In January 2021, Smashing Times International Centre for the Arts and Equality facilitated two theatre-based workshops, one to promote positive mental health and well-being, and one focusing on equality.

On Thursday 21 January, 2021, participants joined us for a fun process of easy-to-use drama and theatre games and exercises. The group explored how to look after their health and well-being, improve their language skills, make new friends, learn more about Ireland and build confidence in a safe and enjoyable space.  The workshops was facilitated by Michael McCabe, with Eimear Burke as counsellor.

Smashing Times International Centre for the Arts and Equality and Dublin Castle, Heritage Services of the Office of Public Works, partnered to host an Equality Workshop, which took place online on Saturday 23 January 2021.

99 years have passed since the handover of Dublin Castle on 16 January 1922, when the new Irish state was ceremonially born in the all too familiar courtyard of Dublin Castle. We will make space to consider that moment from our diverse perspectives today, to explore in action processes of intersectionality and equality-building in remembrance and to critically consider how time, place, institutions and memory can be used to build on ideals and values around independence and interdependence. We’ll be inspired to take stock of the progress that has been made but also to cast a critical eye on processes that reproduce inequalities.

Smashing Times delivered a fun-based workshop using creative processes of theatre games and exercises, through which participants explored themes of equality and diversity. The workshop required active participation in games and exercises and provided participants with a quality arts experience, offering them the opportunity to engage with key issues through a creative process and to work together towards building a better future for all. The workshop was facilitated by Jenny MacDonald.