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X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Collective Encounters
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DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251108T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251108T140000
DTSTAMP:20251106T212217Z
CREATED:20250717T142404Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251106T212217Z
UID:13761-1762599600-1762610400@collective-encounters.org.uk
SUMMARY:Adult Theatre for Social Change Company
DESCRIPTION:We work with highly-skilled theatre makers and facilitators to use a wide range of theatre disciplines to explore social and political issues. \nWhether you’ve never performed before or want to reignite your creative and performance instincts taking part in one of our regular groups will give you the chance to gain confidence through performance\, learn how you can make a difference in the world\, meet new people and have fun. \nOur Adult Theatre For Social Change group meets fortnightly on Saturdays at St Michaels in the City 11am – 2pm. \nFor more information email Abi@collective-encounters.org.uk or call 07849094903.
URL:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/event/adult-theatre-for-social-change-company-13/
LOCATION:St Michael in the City\, Upper Pitt Street\, L1 5BD\, Upper Pitt Street\, Liverpool\, L1 5BD
CATEGORIES:Featured,Regular Sessions,Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251105T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251105T150000
DTSTAMP:20251023T120210Z
CREATED:20250710T094342Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251023T120210Z
UID:13736-1762347600-1762354800@collective-encounters.org.uk
SUMMARY:Adult Theatre for Social Change Company (Online)
DESCRIPTION:Join us for an online variation of our much-loved Adult Theatre for Social Change Company. We work with highly-skilled theatre makers and facilitators to use a wide range of theatre disciplines to explore social and political issues. \nWhether you’ve never performed before or want to reignite your creative and performance instincts taking part in one of our regular groups will give you the chance to gain confidence through performance\, learn how you can make a difference in the world\, meet new people and have fun. \nOur Adult Theatre For Social Change group also meets on fortnightly on Saturdays at St Michaels in the City 11am – 2pm. \nFor more information email Abi@collective-encounters.org.uk or call 07849094903.
URL:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/event/adult-theatre-for-social-change-company-online-3/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Featured,Regular Sessions,Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251027T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251027T140000
DTSTAMP:20251020T112643Z
CREATED:20250916T192716Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251020T112643Z
UID:13981-1761562800-1761573600@collective-encounters.org.uk
SUMMARY:Black Maternal Health: Honouring our Ancestors
DESCRIPTION:Part of the Diasporic strand of Radical Retrospectives \nFrom 26 September 2025\, Collective Encounters will present an exhibition of previously unseen creative material produced in our Black Maternal Health project at the Kuumba Imani Millennium Centre. \nThis powerful installation revisits and reflects on themes of migration through the lens of Black maternal health. Created in collaboration with Liverpool John Moores University\, the work draws a striking connection between historical research into enslaved midwives in the 19th century and the stark\, ongoing disparities in maternal mortality and morbidity rates between Black women and women of other racial and ethnic groups today. \nThe exhibition also features our ‘Hey Mama’ leaflet\, designed by Black women\, for Black women on maternity wards\, offering peer-informed guidance and support. Visitors will have the opportunity to sign up to join our Black Maternal Health Group\, which meets to discuss\, plan and lead future initiatives and interventions. \nHonouring our Ancestors: family friendly drop in event \nOn Monday 27 October\, 11am – 2pm\, we will be hosting a family friendly drop in event alongside the installation\, led by local Black mothers. This will include an exclusive opportunity to see the original Shrine to Granny Marie\, on loan from the International Slavery Museum. \nInteractive creative activities will invite everyone to celebrate the achievements of their ancestors and to reflect on the legacies\, strengths and qualities passed down to future generations. \nYou are invited to bring images\, memories\, stories or poems about any ancestors that you or your family would like to acknowledge. \nThere is no need to book for this event\, just turn up any time between 11am and 2pm. If you have any access requirements or want to ask any questions in advance\, please email admin@collective-encounters.org.uk
URL:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/event/black-maternal-health-honouring-our-ancestors/
LOCATION:Kuumba Imani Millennium Centre\, 4 Princes Rd\, Liverpool\, L8 1TH
CATEGORIES:Featured,Radical Retrospectives,Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/social-change-cabaret-2.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251022T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251022T120000
DTSTAMP:20251020T112704Z
CREATED:20250720T124541Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251020T112704Z
UID:13777-1761127200-1761134400@collective-encounters.org.uk
SUMMARY:Archive Launch (In-person)
DESCRIPTION:Join Collective Encounters as we launch our new digital archive\, celebrating 21 years of theatre for social change in the Liverpool City Region. \n\n\nThis evolving archive brings together the voices\, memories and stories of the many people who have shaped Collective Encounters. It reflects on what cultural memory means and how we tell\, preserve and question our shared histories. \n\n\nThe launch includes a live performance from Heritage Police\, who invite us to interrogate who decides what counts as heritage—and what gets left out. \n\n\nAll are welcome to come along\, explore\, and reflect on what it means to build a shared cultural memory. \n\nWe will also be hosting an online launch event on the same day\, find out more here. \nRSVP NOW
URL:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/event/radical-retrospectives-festival-archive-launch-in-person/
LOCATION:The Bluecoat\, 8 School Lane\, Liverpool\, L1 3BX
CATEGORIES:Featured,Radical Retrospectives,Shows and Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/archive-launch-in-person-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251018T190000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251018T210000
DTSTAMP:20250911T132950Z
CREATED:20250720T124226Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250911T132950Z
UID:13773-1760814000-1760821200@collective-encounters.org.uk
SUMMARY:Social Change Cabaret
DESCRIPTION:Join Collective Encounters for a one-night-only celebration of theatre for social change in Liverpool City Region and beyond. \n\n\nThis lively event brings together performances old and new\, featuring sketches\, songs and spoken word created over two decades of radical community work. \n\n\nWith live music from in-house band The Hip Replacements and stories from artists and participants past and present\, the cabaret offers a chance to reflect on shared struggles\, celebrate creativity and dance together. \n\n\nExpect bold performances\, rich archive moments and plenty of space to reconnect and celebrate together. \n\nTickets are ‘pay what you can’. Please RSVP here and pay for your ticket on arrival. \nThis event includes BSL interpretation and integrated audio description. \nRSVP NOW
URL:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/event/radical-retrospectives-festival-social-change-cabaret/
LOCATION:The Casa\, 29 Hope St\, Liverpool\, L1 9BP
CATEGORIES:Featured,Radical Retrospectives,Shows and Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/social-change-cabaret-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20251009T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20251009T123000
DTSTAMP:20260304T112929Z
CREATED:20250814T212711Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260304T112929Z
UID:13844-1760004000-1760013000@collective-encounters.org.uk
SUMMARY:Creativity\, Archives and Social Justice: OPEN SPACE
DESCRIPTION:Calling question:  \nWhat can creative approaches bring to archiving practices? \nAbout this event: \nBuilding archival spaces for social justice means disrupting patterns that document and preserve dominant points of view by silencing the lived experiences of everyone else; and subsequently\, ensure and deepen societal amnesia.  \nMiranda Mims\, “Archival-Futurism: Archives as Social Justice” \n_ _ _ \nDocumenting and preserving history has been an important cultural practice for millennia.  \nWho decides what goes into archives has long been rooted in colonial\, patriarchal and classist practices. Monolithic approaches to archiving cannot represent the diversity of our cultural heritages.  \nInstead\, creative approaches to archiving can provide new and innovative ways in which communities can be represented and choose to represent themselves. \nThis event will explore how creativity and co-creation can transform archives.  \n​Speakers: \n​Pawlet Brookes\, Serendipity Institute for Black Arts and Heritage​ \nArchivist\, MayDay Rooms \n_ _ _ \nThis open space event is part of Collective Encounters’ Radical Retrospectives Festival\, celebrating 21 years since the founding of the company.  \nRadical Retrospectives aims to look back over more than histories that are meaningful for our communities and imagine the future of theatre for social change in Liverpool City Region and beyond. \nEvent Format: Open Spaces are participant-led events where the agenda and discussion are driven by those in the room. At the beginning of the event guest speakers will introduce some key ideas\, principles and practices behind the theme and offer provocations for discussion. Together we set the agenda and you will be able to move freely between conversations. \nTicket Cost: £5.00 \nWe also have a small number of bursary places available for those with limited funds\, please email info@collective-encounters.org.uk \nAccess: This event will use live transcription. If you require BSL interpretation\, please get in touch no later than two weeks before the event. If you have any other access requirements please email info@collective-encounters.org.uk \nBook now
URL:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/event/creativity-archives-and-social-justice-open-space/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Creative Development Event Calendar,Featured,Radical Retrospectives
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/social-change-cabaret-3.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250918T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250918T123000
DTSTAMP:20250908T113628Z
CREATED:20250814T212425Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250908T113628Z
UID:13839-1758189600-1758198600@collective-encounters.org.uk
SUMMARY:Art\, Change and ‘Public Good’: OPEN SPACE
DESCRIPTION:Calling question:  \nWhat ‘good’ can participatory or socially engaged arts do in partnership with public and government agencies? \nAbout this event: \n“Culture is not just about the provision of goods and services to the sovereign consumer but a crucial aspect of citizenship and the empowerment required for the flourishing of human capabilities\, of spiritual freedom” \nJustin O’Connor\, Culture is not an industry: Reclaiming art and culture for the common good \nThe power of the arts\, culture and creativity is undeniable. Engagement with participatory\, community and socially engaged arts is a transformative experience for many. \nAiming for change\, this work often includes partnerships with public and government agencies such as hospitals\, social care settings\, the prison and probation system\, and in education.  \nYet\, these settings have been hit hard under austerity\, leading to cuts to provision\, staffing shortages and weakened infrastructure. Inequality is also rife across these contexts and perpetuated by unfair policies which leave the most vulnerable worse off.  \nThis event will reflect on what is possible in these contexts. \nSpeakers \nthe vacuum cleaner: UK based artist and activist who makes candid\, provocative and playful work \nAshleigh Nugent: writer\, performer\, therapist and director at RiseUp CIO \nIsabelle Kirkham: Care Experienced Activist/Campaigner\, Co-Founder & Co-Lead of The Care Experienced Movement \n_ _ _ \nThis open space event is part of Collective Encounters’ Radical Retrospectives Festival\, celebrating 21 years since the founding of the company.  \nRadical Retrospectives aims to look back over more than histories that are meaningful for our communities and imagine the future of theatre for social change in Liverpool City Region and beyond. \nEvent Format: Open Spaces are participant-led events where the agenda and discussion are driven by those in the room. At the beginning of the event guest speakers will introduce some key ideas\, principles and practices behind the theme and offer provocations for discussion. Together we set the agenda and you will be able to move freely between conversations. \nTicket Cost: £5.00 \nWe also have a small number of bursary places available for those with limited funds\, please email info@collective-encounters.org.uk \nAccess: \nThis event will take place in the Black-E which has step free access to the main entrance and an accessible lift to all levels. For more information see the Black-E accessibility statement: https://www.theblack-e.org/the-black-e-facilities/the-black-e-accessibility/ \nIf you require BSL interpretation\, please get in touch no later than two weeks before the event. If you have any other access requirements please email info@collective-encounters.org.uk \nBOOK NOW
URL:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/event/art-change-and-public-good-open-space/
LOCATION:The Black-E\, 1 Great George Street\, Liverpool\, L1 5EW\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Creative Development Event Calendar,Featured,Radical Retrospectives
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/social-change-cabaret.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250910T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250910T120000
DTSTAMP:20250901T190914Z
CREATED:20250901T190914Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250901T190914Z
UID:13856-1757498400-1757505600@collective-encounters.org.uk
SUMMARY:Find Your Creative Voice
DESCRIPTION:Explore storytelling\, poetry\, character creation and more in a series of six creative workshops led by our Co-Artistic Director\, Abi Horsfield. Expect a safe\, fun and expressive space to share your ideas. \nEach session is self-contained\, so you can drop in or attend all six. \nWednesdays from 10 Sept\, 10am – 12pm. \nTo sign up\, email getinvolved@southliverpoolhomes.co.uk
URL:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/event/find-your-creative-voice/
LOCATION:Market Place Social\, Parklands\, Conleach Road\, Liverpool\, L24 0TY
CATEGORIES:Featured,Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Arts-Dementia-87-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250809T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250809T140000
DTSTAMP:20250720T192740Z
CREATED:20250717T141601Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250720T192740Z
UID:13745-1754737200-1754748000@collective-encounters.org.uk
SUMMARY:Adult Theatre for Social Change Company
DESCRIPTION:We work with highly-skilled theatre makers and facilitators to use a wide range of theatre disciplines to explore social and political issues. \nWhether you’ve never performed before or want to reignite your creative and performance instincts taking part in one of our regular groups will give you the chance to gain confidence through performance\, learn how you can make a difference in the world\, meet new people and have fun. \nOur Adult Theatre For Social Change group meets fortnightly on Saturdays at St Michaels in the City 11am – 2pm. \nFor more information email Abi@collective-encounters.org.uk or call 07849094903.
URL:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/event/adult-theatre-for-social-change-company-9/
LOCATION:St Michael in the City\, Upper Pitt Street\, L1 5BD\, Upper Pitt Street\, Liverpool\, L1 5BD
CATEGORIES:Featured,Regular Sessions,Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250724T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250724T120000
DTSTAMP:20250701T114354Z
CREATED:20250603T114130Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250701T114354Z
UID:13696-1753351200-1753358400@collective-encounters.org.uk
SUMMARY:Looking Back to Look Forward: Cultural Memory Workshop (race & diaspora)
DESCRIPTION:As part of our 21st birthday Radical Retrospectives programme\, join Collective Encounters to look back over the past 20 years of cultural change in Liverpool City Region and beyond. Over three themed sessions\, we are inviting local people to share memories\, experiences and feelings about how things have changed and what we would like to see in the future. \nEach session will be led by Collective Encounters artists and participants who bring lived experience in the theme under discussion. Expect a welcoming and open atmosphere\, some gentle creative activities\, creative material to reflect on from the Collective Encounters archives\, and plenty of opportunities to chat and share. \nSaturday 28 June\, 3pm-5pm \nUnity Theatre\, 1 Hope Place\, Liverpool L1 9BG \nSession theme: gender and sexuality \nLead artists: Joanne Tremarco & Aidan Jolly \nThursday 17 July\, 10am-12pm \nMake Hamilton\, Argyle Street\, Birkenhead CH41 6LQ \nSession theme: disability\, neurodivergence and mental health \nLead artists: Abi Horsfield & Aidan Jolly \nThis session will include BSL interpretation \nThursday 24 July\, 10am-12pm \nMetal Liverpool\, Tunnel Road\, Liverpool L7 6ND \nSession theme: race\, diaspora and community  \nLead artists: Michelle Richards & Aidan Jolly \nAccess:  \nAll venues are wheelchair accessible.  \nBSL interpreted workshop: 17 July.  \nIf you require any other access support please let us know when you make your booking. \nBook Online
URL:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/event/looking-back-to-look-forward-cultural-memory-workshop-race-diaspora/
LOCATION:Metal Liverpool\, Edge Hill Railway Station\, Tunnel Road\, Liverpool\, L7 6ND
CATEGORIES:Featured,Radical Retrospectives,Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Collective-Encounters_MAKE_Photo-by-Jazamin-Sinclair_DSC6012-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250719T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250719T140000
DTSTAMP:20250717T123817Z
CREATED:20250402T143236Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250717T123817Z
UID:13466-1752922800-1752933600@collective-encounters.org.uk
SUMMARY:Adult Theatre for Social Change Company
DESCRIPTION:  \nWe work with highly-skilled theatre makers and facilitators to use a wide range of theatre disciplines to explore social and political issues. \nWhether you’ve never performed before or want to reignite your creative and performance instincts taking part in one of our regular groups will give you the chance to gain confidence through performance\, learn how you can make a difference in the world\, meet new people and have fun. \nOur Adult Theatre For Social Change group meets fortnightly on Saturdays at St Michaels in the City 11am – 2pm. \nFor more information email Abi@collective-encounters.org.uk or call 07849094903.
URL:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/event/adult-theatre-for-social-change-company-8/
LOCATION:St Michael in the City\, Upper Pitt Street\, L1 5BD\, Upper Pitt Street\, Liverpool\, L1 5BD
CATEGORIES:Featured,Regular Sessions,Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250717T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250717T120000
DTSTAMP:20250627T160814Z
CREATED:20250603T113640Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250627T160814Z
UID:13691-1752746400-1752753600@collective-encounters.org.uk
SUMMARY:Looking Back to Look Forward: Cultural Memory Workshop (disability & mental health)
DESCRIPTION:As part of our 21st birthday Radical Retrospectives programme\, join Collective Encounters to look back over the past 20 years of cultural change in Liverpool City Region and beyond. Over three themed sessions\, we are inviting local people to share memories\, experiences and feelings about how things have changed and what we would like to see in the future. \nEach session will be led by Collective Encounters artists and participants who bring lived experience in the theme under discussion. Expect a welcoming and open atmosphere\, some gentle creative activities\, creative material to reflect on from the Collective Encounters archives\, and plenty of opportunities to chat and share. \nSaturday 28 June\, 3pm-5pm \nUnity Theatre\, 1 Hope Place\, Liverpool L1 9BG \nSession theme: gender and sexuality \nLead artists: Joanne Tremarco & Aidan Jolly \nThursday 17 July\, 10am-12pm \nMake Hamilton\, Argyle Street\, Birkenhead CH41 6LQ \nSession theme: disability\, neurodivergence and mental health \nLead artists: Abi Horsfield & Aidan Jolly \nThis session will include BSL interpretation \nThursday 24 July\, 10am-12pm \nMetal Liverpool\, Tunnel Road\, Liverpool L7 6ND \nSession theme: race\, diaspora and community  \nLead artists: Michelle Richards & Aidan Jolly \nAccess:  \nAll venues are wheelchair accessible.  \nBSL interpreted workshop: 17 July.  \nIf you require any other access support please let us know when you make your booking. \nBook Online
URL:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/event/looking-back-to-look-forward-cultural-memory-workshop-disability-mental-health/
LOCATION:Make Hamilton\, Argyle Street\, Birkenhead\, Wirral\, CH41 6LQ
CATEGORIES:Featured,Radical Retrospectives,Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Farewell-Welfare-Group-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250710T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250710T130000
DTSTAMP:20250627T160828Z
CREATED:20250410T145807Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250627T160828Z
UID:13527-1752141600-1752152400@collective-encounters.org.uk
SUMMARY:Trauma Informed Practice for Participatory Artists (TRAINING)
DESCRIPTION:“Public and professional awareness and understanding of trauma require a social justice movement that recognises and honours survivors” \n– Judith Herman\, feminist psychotherapist\, Trauma and Recovery\, 2022 \nAlthough it’s very important to maintain the distinction between art and therapy\, participatory artists are often in positions where they need to support their participants’ mental health. This training is specifically for artists and facilitators and takes a person-centred approach to understanding trauma and incorporating this understanding into your creative practice. \nThis training will: \n\nUnpick popular perceptions and misuse of language around trauma and PTSD;\nProvide an overview of the physiology of trauma and an insight from the perspective of a clinical psychotherapist;\nOffer practical tips for creating safe spaces for participants and avoiding practices which may retraumatise participants;\nCreate a space to explore problem solving using real-life scenarios;\nExplore asset-based approaches to understanding trauma within social justice frameworks.\n\nThis event is aimed at artists working in communities\, theatre-makers and activists interested in using the arts as a tool for positive change. \nOnline Event: This training will take place online using Zoom. You will receive an email with the link. \n**Please note: we do not record the sessions because of the sensitive nature of the topic. \nLength: 3 hours \nTicket Cost: \n\nFor attendees supported by their organisations the full price of a ticket is £55.00\nFor freelancers and individuals from non-regularly funded organisations attendees the price of a ticket is £35.00\nFor those on low or no income the ticket price is £18.00\n\nWe also have a small number of bursary places available for those with limited funds\, please email info@collective-encounters.org.uk \n* *Please Note: Ticket sales will end 24 hours before this event is due to start. \nAccess: This event will use live transcription. If you require BSL interpretation\, please get in touch no later than two weeks before the event. If you have any other access requirements please email info@collective-encounters.org.uk \nTrainers: AIDAN JOLLY is a researcher\, performance maker\, trainer and musician with more than 25 years’ experience of working with communities in struggle. He works on projects that seek redress for historic and current injustices\, and is the Research Lead for Collective Encounters. He is also a PhD candidate at Edge Hill University\, looking at radically generative communities of transition. He has worked with survivors of torture\, veterans\, homeless people\, and has personal experience of complex PTSD. \nJESS MICHAELSON is a Gestalt Psychotherapist\, Supervisor and Trainer with over 20 years’ experience of working with traumatised adults from diverse communities\, in particular with refugee survivors of Human Rights abuses. For the last 17 years Jess has been working as a psychotherapist and trainer for Freedom from Torture. Jess also works as a freelance supervisor and trainer offering training on many aspects of therapeutic work which includes working with asylum seekers\, working with interpreters and self-care. Jess has a longstanding passion in human rights as well as in the therapist’s journey when developing their work with survivors of human rights abuses. \nJess has written a chapter “Holding hope: the challenge for therapists working with survivors of torture” in Psychological Therapies for Survivors of Torture: A Human Rights approach for people seeking asylum. Boyles\, J (ed) 2017. \nFeedback from previous attendees: \n“It opened my eyes to the volume of individuals we walk past i life who have and are experiencing trauma and how this needs to be recognised in the creative environments we foster” \n” This training gave me the access or entry-point into an informed framework for a trauma informed practice. I could really feel the benefit of lots of people’s wisdom and experience!” \n“F ull of practical solutions and thinking about approaches for our practice” \nBook Now
URL:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/event/trauma-informed-practice-for-participatory-artists-training-7/
LOCATION:Online
CATEGORIES:Creative Development Event Calendar,Featured,Training
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/TIP-website-feature.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250628T150000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250628T170000
DTSTAMP:20250613T033754Z
CREATED:20250603T113211Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250613T033754Z
UID:13689-1751122800-1751130000@collective-encounters.org.uk
SUMMARY:Looking Back to Look Forward: Cultural Memory Workshop (gender & sexuality)
DESCRIPTION:As part of our 21st birthday Radical Retrospectives programme\, join Collective Encounters to look back over the past 20 years of cultural change in Liverpool City Region and beyond. Over three themed sessions\, we are inviting local people to share memories\, experiences and feelings about how things have changed and what we would like to see in the future. \nEach session will be led by Collective Encounters artists and participants who bring lived experience in the theme under discussion. Expect a welcoming and open atmosphere\, some gentle creative activities\, creative material to reflect on from the Collective Encounters archives\, and plenty of opportunities to chat and share. \nSaturday 28 June\, 3pm-5pm \nUnity Theatre\, 1 Hope Place\, Liverpool L1 9BG \nSession theme: gender and sexuality \nLead artists: Joanne Tremarco & Aidan Jolly \nThursday 17 July\, 10am-12pm \nMake Hamilton\, Argyle Street\, Birkenhead CH41 6LQ \nSession theme: disability\, neurodivergence and mental health \nLead artists: Abi Horsfield & Aidan Jolly \nThis session will include BSL interpretation \nThursday 24 July\, 10am-12pm \nMetal Liverpool\, Tunnel Road\, Liverpool L7 6ND \nSession theme: race\, diaspora and community  \nLead artists: Michelle Richards & Aidan Jolly \nAccess:  \nAll venues are wheelchair accessible.  \nBSL interpreted workshop: 17 July.  \nIf you require any other access support please let us know when you make your booking. \nBook Online
URL:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/event/looking-back-to-look-forward-cultural-memory-workshop-gender-sexuality/
LOCATION:Unity Theatre\, 1 Hope Place\, Liverpool\, L1 9BG\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Featured,Radical Retrospectives,Workshops
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250625T140000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250625T163000
DTSTAMP:20250619T082129Z
CREATED:20250601T143819Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250619T082129Z
UID:13686-1750860000-1750869000@collective-encounters.org.uk
SUMMARY:Access to Advice: Time for Change! (Theatre Informed Policy Making)
DESCRIPTION:Do you know how to access advice? \nMany of us face everyday challenges from navigating benefits and housing\, to dealing with family or education issues. But when a problem arises\, do you know where to go for help? \nJoin us for an interactive performance that dives into the real barriers people in Liverpool face when trying to get the support they need. \nCreated with local voices and real experiences\, this engaging event combines theatre and discussion to uncover what gets in the way and how things could be different. Watch powerful scenes\, share your thoughts\, and be part of shaping better solutions. \nPerformance dates/times: \n\nWednesday 25 June\, 2-4:30pm\, Liverpool Lighthouse\nThursday 26 June\, 2-4:30pm\, Black-E\n\nAccess \nVenues are wheelchair accessible \nBSL interpreted performance: 26 June\, Black-E \nIntegrated audio description \nBook Now
URL:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/event/access-to-advice-time-for-change-theatre-informed-policy-making-2/
LOCATION:Liverpool Lighthouse\, Oakfield Rd\, Liverpool L4 0UF\, Liverpool\, L4 0UF\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Featured,Shows and Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/featured-image-website-theatre-informed.png
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250607T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250607T140000
DTSTAMP:20250601T172015Z
CREATED:20250402T142905Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250601T172015Z
UID:13460-1749294000-1749304800@collective-encounters.org.uk
SUMMARY:Adult Theatre for Social Change Company
DESCRIPTION:  \nWe work with highly-skilled theatre makers and facilitators to use a wide range of theatre disciplines to explore social and political issues. \nWhether you’ve never performed before or want to reignite your creative and performance instincts taking part in one of our regular groups will give you the chance to gain confidence through performance\, learn how you can make a difference in the world\, meet new people and have fun. \nOur Adult Theatre For Social Change group meets fortnightly on Saturdays at St Michaels in the City 11am – 2pm. \nFor more information email Abi@collective-encounters.org.uk or call 07849094903.
URL:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/event/adult-theatre-for-social-change-company-5/
LOCATION:St Michael in the City\, Upper Pitt Street\, L1 5BD\, Upper Pitt Street\, Liverpool\, L1 5BD
CATEGORIES:Featured,Regular Sessions,Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/1.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250531T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250531T140000
DTSTAMP:20250514T145602Z
CREATED:20250402T142751Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250514T145602Z
UID:13458-1748689200-1748700000@collective-encounters.org.uk
SUMMARY:Adult Theatre for Social Change Company
DESCRIPTION:  \nWe work with highly-skilled theatre makers and facilitators to use a wide range of theatre disciplines to explore social and political issues. \nWhether you’ve never performed before or want to reignite your creative and performance instincts taking part in one of our regular groups will give you the chance to gain confidence through performance\, learn how you can make a difference in the world\, meet new people and have fun. \nOur Adult Theatre For Social Change group meets fortnightly on Saturdays at St Michaels in the City 11am – 2pm. \nFor more information email Abi@collective-encounters.org.uk or call 07849094903.
URL:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/event/adult-theatre-for-social-change-company-4/
LOCATION:St Michael in the City\, Upper Pitt Street\, L1 5BD\, Upper Pitt Street\, Liverpool\, L1 5BD
CATEGORIES:Featured,Regular Sessions,Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/1.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250522T100000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250522T130000
DTSTAMP:20250428T083145Z
CREATED:20250423T153800Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250428T083145Z
UID:13617-1747908000-1747918800@collective-encounters.org.uk
SUMMARY:Creative Projects with Care-Experienced Children & Young People (TRAINING)
DESCRIPTION:Are you an artist or professional working with young people? \nThis year in the UK 38\,792 children and young people will enter the care system*. In 2023\, a total of 83\,840 children and young people were looked after**. \nThis training will explore how creativity can support the wellbeing\, personal and educational development of care-experienced children and young people. \nAttendees will: \n\nbe introduced to the policy / strategic context of the care system;\nunpack terminology around care and young people;\ndiscuss the benefits of creative work for care-experienced children and young people;\nconsider aspects of good practice in working with care-experienced children and young people;\nexplore practical approaches and creative ideas for the work.\n\nOnline Event: This training will take place online using Zoom. You will receive an email with the link. Please note – we do not record the sessions because of the sensitive nature of the topic. \nLength: 3 hours \nTicket Cost: \n\nFor attendees supported by their organisations the full price of a ticket is £40.00\n\n\nFor freelancers and individuals from non-regularly funded organisations attendees the price of a ticket is £30.00\n\n\nFor those on low or no income the ticket price is £18.00\n\nWe also have a small number of bursary places available for those with limited funds\, please email info@collective-encounters.org.uk \nPlease Note: Ticket sales will end 24 hours before this event is due to start. \nAccess: This event will use live transcription. If you require BSL interpretation\, please get in touch no later than two weeks before the event. If you have any other access requirements please email info@collective-encounters.org.uk \n_ _ _ \n*Home for Good: https://homeforgood.org.uk/statistics/care-leavers \n**Direct Gov: https://explore-education-statistics.service.gov.uk/find-statistics/children-looked-after-in-england-including-adoptions \nBook Online
URL:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/event/creative-projects-with-care-experienced-children-young-people-training-2/
CATEGORIES:Creative Development Event Calendar,Featured,Training
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/2.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250507T173000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250803T213000
DTSTAMP:20250716T114422Z
CREATED:20250423T150521Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250716T114422Z
UID:13608-1746639000-1754256600@collective-encounters.org.uk
SUMMARY:Gender\, Identity and Art: Breaking the Archetypal Mould
DESCRIPTION:Gender\, Identity and Art: Breaking the Archetypal Mould \nLooking back to look forward \nUnity Theatre Bar\, 1 Hope Pl\, Liverpool L1 9BG \nCollective Encounters is delighted to launch a brand new exhibition created by Women in Action. This exhibition explores the changing representations of gender\, sexuality and women.  \nThe artworks interrogate identity through archetypes such as the fool\, the sage\, the caregiver\, the outlaw\, the ruler\, and more. These archetypes form symbols which represent human behaviour and personality in order to help us understand ourselves and what influences us. From a social justice perspective\, a critical understanding of archetypes means moving from the personal to the collective. Often influenced by patriarchal and heteronormative ideas and the goals of capitalism\, challenging these stereotypes helps to reveal the structure of society in order to break free\, change the rules and celebrate who we are. \nWomen in Action have been working at a grassroots level to use and dismantle these figures in order to address themes of health\, wellbeing\, women’s working conditions\, LGBT+ identity and their intersections with class struggle. \n_ _ _ \nExhibition launch – Tuesday 13th May\, 5.30pm – 7.30pm \nCome along to meet the artists and chat about their work \nExhibition opens Wednesday 7th May and runs until 3rd August 2025 \n_ _ _ \nThis exhibition is part of Collective Encounters’ Radical Retrospectives programme\, celebrating and archiving 21 years of the organisations’ work across the Liverpool City Region. \nRadical RetrospectivesUnity Theatre website
URL:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/event/gender-identity-and-art-breaking-the-archetypal-mould-exhibition/
LOCATION:Unity Theatre\, 1 Hope Place\, Liverpool\, L1 9BG\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Featured,Radical Retrospectives,Shows and Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250426T110000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250426T140000
DTSTAMP:20250421T134304Z
CREATED:20250402T142438Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250421T134304Z
UID:13454-1745665200-1745676000@collective-encounters.org.uk
SUMMARY:Adult Theatre for Social Change Company
DESCRIPTION:  \nWe work with highly-skilled theatre makers and facilitators to use a wide range of theatre disciplines to explore social and political issues. \nWhether you’ve never performed before or want to reignite your creative and performance instincts taking part in one of our regular groups will give you the chance to gain confidence through performance\, learn how you can make a difference in the world\, meet new people and have fun. \nOur Adult Theatre For Social Change group meets fortnightly on Saturdays at St Michaels in the City 11am – 2pm. \nFor more information email Abi@collective-encounters.org.uk or call 07849094903.
URL:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/event/adult-theatre-for-social-change-company-2/
LOCATION:St Michael in the City\, Upper Pitt Street\, L1 5BD\, Upper Pitt Street\, Liverpool\, L1 5BD
CATEGORIES:Featured,Regular Sessions,Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=Europe/London:20250422T130000
DTEND;TZID=Europe/London:20250422T150000
DTSTAMP:20250421T134246Z
CREATED:20250410T150349Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250421T134246Z
UID:13529-1745326800-1745334000@collective-encounters.org.uk
SUMMARY:Women In Action
DESCRIPTION:Led by theatre maker Joanne Tremarco the group meet weekly on Tuesdays\, 1-3pm usually at the Unity Theatre\, Hope Place\, Liverpool\, with the option to join online via Zoom. These weekly sessions involve creative activities\, training and discussion that explore a whole range of themes relevant to women today. \nIn 2025 the group are exploring LGBTQ+ life and history in Merseyside\, working towards a short performance and an exhibition. \nFor more information\, contact joanne@collective-encounters.org.uk
URL:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/event/women-in-action/
LOCATION:Unity Theatre\, 1 Hope Place\, Liverpool\, L1 9BG\, United Kingdom
CATEGORIES:Featured,Regular Sessions,Workshops
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://collective-encounters.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/3.jpg
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END:VCALENDAR