NDCWales Presents Above and Beyond in Penrhys Above & Beyond brings together the community of Penrhys with partners, collaborators and creatives to develop a sustainable model of co-creation, with creativity at its core. 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 What's on and how people can get involved and book: Above & Beyond is based in Penrhys. We deliver free weekly activity with the community that is open to all ages and experiences. Please see below for available classes: Babes and Tots 0-3 years Wednesdays - 11-12:30pm Llanfair Church, Penrhys Play, song, craft and movement with Sandra. Healthy movement Open to all adults Wednesdays - 1:30-2:30pm Llanfair Church, Penrhys An hour for yourself to move, stretch and breathe with Sandra. After school academy: For 7-11 years Wednesdays - 3:15-4:15pm Penrhys Primary Join our weekly beatboxing and parkour academy. Open to anyone wanting to learn new skills, make new friends and get creative. Evening cafe: Children and young people (7+ years) Wednesdays - 5-7pm Llanfair Church Hall Join us as we fuse beatboxing and parkour together, learn how to roll and vault and what a kickdrum and high hat is! Open to all abilities. If you are interested in taking part or want to discuss the project further please email Rebecca Email Rebecca Gallery