A TWO-week programme of exciting taster creative activities is returning to Thurrock this February. 

Each act, workshop and show in the Green Light programme from Start Thurrock has been booked in response to feedback from residents on the type of fun activities they wish to have access to locally. 

The first Green Light programme ran last year with hundreds of local people participating in workshop activities and watching shows in community spaces. 

Start Thurrock Creative Director, Katie Beadle, said the team were excited to provide even more of what people want this time around in this year's programme which runs between February 15 and March 2, with several of the events taking place during half term. 

"We cannot wait to bring Green Light back to Thurrock for 2025, providing residents with the opportunity to give something new a go," she said. 

"Last year's programme was a big success, but we've listened to the feedback and added more weekend workshops, evening sessions and activities exclusively for adults whilst not losing out on family-friendly events which were so popular. 

"We want to work in partnership with the people of Thurrock to help them choose, produce and take part in brilliant arts and cultural experiences on their doorstep. 

"For example, residents have told us how much they value our wonderful outdoor spaces in the borough, so we've tried to make it a greener Green Light in 2025 by featuring a number of acts which have an eco-friendly message at their core."  

These include theatre show Boxville, a cardboard adventure aimed at youngsters, SPIN - an interactive poetry gig with raps, poems and stories about planet earth, and a Dreamcatcher Making Workshop where you can combine mindfulness with sustainability by upcycling any old items. 

The packed programme offers a chance to develop and learn new skills with Watercolour Painting, Creative Writing and Film Making workshops, plus features family-friendly activities like Truck Art, where you can learn about South Asian culture. Children will also have an opportunity to perform on the Thameside Theatre stage with two special drama and music sessions.

Additionally, tickets for Once Upon a Flowerbed, a theatre show specifically designed for children with learning disabilities, are also available, plus local artists have been given the opportunity to showcase their own talents. 

Start Thurrock is a Creative People and Place Programme supported by the National Lottery through Arts Council England. 

Green Light runs between February 15 and March 2, with several of the events taking place during February half term. 

To see the full programme and reserve your free tickets visit https://www.startthurrock.org/whats-on/