Above and Beyond in Penrhys

The mission of Above & Beyond is to share tools and resources with the community of Penrhys (Rhondda Cynon Taf) through cultural activity, especially with young people, to help define its identity, amplify local voices and help create a positive future for the community.  This project seeks to contribute to a change in how residents live and express themselves through experiences rooted in their own creativity and expression. 

NDCWales is the facilitating partner on this project which has evolved through direct experience gained during an initial preparation period (2019-20) followed by a significant R&D phase (June 21 - Oct 22) funded by Arts Council of Wales. The R&D phase further defined the need, relationships, priority groups and a unique creative approach rooted in Movement and Beatboxing, with a specific focus on engaging young people. This was achieved through deep engagement with the community and a partnership approach centered on co-creation. This model of delivery has been critical to its successful development. The project, currently in its third phase (Nov 22 – May 23), is community led, facilitated by a network of arts and non-arts partners. NDCWales is committed to long-term delivery for Penrhys to become an epicentre for its own unique artistic expression to realise change. 

This phase focuses in on the creative development of the young people of Penrhys, led by skilled and dedicated artists including Choreographer, Parkour and Dance facilitator, Sandra Harnisch-Lacey and Kyle Stead - Producer, Actor and Theatre Maker based in Rhondda Valleys.
Sandra and Kyle are the artistic team that are on the ground delivering and engaging with the community every week. 

Weekly after school and evening sessions take place every Wednesday alongside supporting activities including Babes & Tots and Healthy Movement for adults.   

Partners on Above and Beyond include: National Dance Company Wales (facilitating partner), Llanfair Church Penrhys, Penrhys Primary, Paul Evans, Valleys Kids, Trivallis Housing Association, Rhondda Cynon Taff Arts Service, Ty Cerdd, Co-production Network for Wales, Tempo Time Credits. 

Photos: Jon Pountney