PARTICIPATION
Our process starts with play.
The work of children; uncensored, silly, imaginative play.
It gives us a freedom to bring ourselves to the game.
The audience know instinctively when we're fully connected to the game of writing, composing and performance, even when we're creating tragedy.
This kind of play is universal. It doesn't rely on language, ability or experience. Most of our collaborative and participatory work begins here, and then evolves in response to the brief and the artist's needs.
On this page you'll find some of the events that we've been involved with or are currently planning.
If you are interested in a creative collaboration, post-show discussion, residency or other participatory experience with Pecho Mama and would like to start a conversation, get in touch.
WORKSHOPS
In 2019, Pecho Mama worked with the Cultural Association of Peru to deliver a two day workshop in Lima that brought together professional theatre and dance artists with professional musicians. We shared our practice of developing drama, story and music as one, mining for the sweet spot where music and drama are listening and responding directly to each other.
Pecho Mama offer professional development through workshops and residencies for both experienced and aspiring performers.
We create a tailored programme of support for artists interested in writing, musical composition, stage craft and/or performance making.
COLLABORATIONS
In autumn 2020, we partnered with Future Arts Centres, The Core in Corby, and groups of local Corby performers to deliver an experimental performance project, We Are Family. We connected with the community through existing live music events, and then together we devised a performance piece that straddled generations and started conversations around family dynamics and mental health. Using Pecho Mama's methodology and creative team, we worked with the participants to create a short film that reflects the heart and the voice of Corby. The result of our work can be seen here.
'We are very happy with our experience with Pecho Mama, their great attitude and professionalism as well as being wonderful artists. They also took part in a "dialogue table" with other artists and offered a very successful two-day workshop'
Pamela Alderson, Teatro Britanico, Peru
DIGITAL COURSES
In Spring 2020, we partnered with Lakeside Theatre and Essex University to deliver an artist residency programme with the University's Performing Arts department. In response to the global pandemic, the course was adapted for digital engagement, with assemblies and break out groups delivered via Zoom. Students met with Mella twice daily online to discuss and respond to provocations around story and form in order to develop and test their own artistic voice. Students watched a Pecho Mama production on a virtual reality theatre platform, using headsets (delivered to them across the globe) and their own mobile devices.
'Everyone that came had nothing but amazing things to say. It was a truly fantastic experience!'
Bridport Arts Centre
MENTORING, TALKS & CONSULTANCY
As an experienced mentor, Mella offers guidance, insight and support for performing artists and producers. Mella offers both structured and creative-led sessions for professional and aspiring artists, drawing on her experience as a writer, producer, director, dramaturg, performer and musical director.