News

The Alley Theatre announces Spring 2025 workshops

29 January 2025

Strabane’s cultural hub, the Alley Theatre, is delighted to unveil its vibrant line-up of workshops for Spring 2025. Over the next few months the Alley is offering a wide array of hands-on, creative experiences - from unique arts and crafts to culinary skills, these workshops are designed for all ages and skill levels, promising a season full of fun, learning, and artistic expression.

Adult Arts Workshops

Large Props Workshop
Get ready to roll up your sleeves and bring your artistic vision to life in an exciting three-week Props Workshop. Every Saturday from 15^th February – 1^st March, participants will work together to design and create large-scale props for use in upcoming Alley Theatre productions and community events in Strabane. No previous experience required, just a passion for creativity and a collaborative spirit
This is a fantastic opportunity to get involved in the theatre community while learning new skills in prop-making, painting, and design. Suitable for ages 16 years and up.  Times 12noon – 4pm. Free to take part but must be pre-booked.

Thai Cooking Workshop
Embark on a culinary adventure with this hands-on workshop where you will learn to prepare three authentic Thai dishes each week from scratch. Taking place each Saturday from 15^th – 29^th March from 2-4pm you will be led by an experienced Thai chef from Thai Arts and Cooking NI. Dive into the rich flavours of Thai cuisine, learning the techniques and secrets behind making mouth-watering dishes. With a small group size, this workshop provides an intimate setting to learn, practice, and savour the fruits of your labour. Perfect for food lovers looking to expand their cooking repertoire. The cost is £25 per week.

Spring Willow Wreath Workshop
Celebrate the season of renewal by creating your very own spring willow wreath on Saturday 29^th March from 11am-2pm. Under the guidance of Fiona Doney, you will use locally sourced willow and seasonal foliage, you’ll learn the art of wreath-making, designing a beautiful decoration that embodies the spirit of spring. Ideal for beginners, this workshop will also give you tips on how to embellish your wreath with natural decorations, perfect for brightening your home or garden. Cost £25.

Woodturning Demonstration
Ever wondered how those beautiful, handcrafted wooden bowls are made? This live demonstration on Saturday 5^th April will take you through the fascinating process of woodturning. Watch expert wood turner Gavin Campbell as he transforms a block of wood into a stunning bowl using a traditional electric lathe. This hands-on demonstration will offer insight into the craftsmanship and patience required for this age-old art form. This workshop runs from 2-4pm and cost £10.

Intergenerational Workshops

Ceramic Flower Picture
Get your hands dirty and bring spring to life with a beautiful ceramic flower picture. This two-part workshop on Saturday 5^th and 12^th April from 10am-1pm will guide you through creating a stunning clay picture bursting with vibrant flowers. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced artist, this workshop is perfect for unleashing your creativity and enjoying the tactile process of working with clay.  Led by Leona Devine, this workshop is suitable for ages 10 years up to adults of all ages.  Cost £15 (children), £25 (adults).

Children's / Teenage Workshops

Make Your Own Teddy Bear
A heart-warming workshop perfect for young crafters on Saturday 22^nd February from 11am-1pm. Children will design and stitch together their very own teddy bear, creating a lifelong friend to cherish. Each bear comes with a personalized birth certificate, making this a memorable keepsake. A great bonding experience for parents and children alike. Cost £10, suitable for age 6+.

Fused Glass Sun Catchers
Discover the world of glass art and design by creating your own stunning fused glass sun catcher. Suitable for ages 12+, this hands-on class will teach participants how to combine colours and textures to create a functional piece of art that can brighten any space. Led by Natasha Duddy, the workshop runs on Saturday 22^nd March from 1.30-3.30pm and costs £15.

Introduction to Embroidery
Suitable for ages 10 years+, learn the art of hand embroidery with a focus on modern techniques. Led by Sinead Crumlish on Saturdays from 22^nd March – 12^th April,10.30am-12.30pm each week. This workshop will explore a variety of stitches and designs to create a beautiful bespoke tote bag. It costs £25.

Upcycling & Mark Making
Get creative and express yourself with sustainable art by turning your old clothes into new and functional pieces on Saturdays 26^th April and 3^rd May. This eco-friendly workshop will inspire participants to repurpose materials and give them a second life. Learn to print and stitch techniques and make art using old fabrics and packaging.  Suitable for ages 12+, the cost is £20.

Easter Fun
Hop into the Easter spirit with a fun and festive craft workshop on Saturday 19^th April.  With multiple sessions available at 10.30am and 11.40pm children can get creative with clay and design their own Easter-themed projects, from bunnies to eggs and beyond. This is a fantastic way for kids to express their artistic flair while celebrating the joy of Easter. This is a free workshop, but it must be pre-booked. 

Also on Saturday 19^th April from 1pm-4pm, let your children’s imagination run wild in a drop in interactive storytelling sessions. Children will enjoy hearing Easter-themed stories come to life through captivating story-telling and hands-on participation. With plenty of opportunities for creative expression, these sessions bring the magic of storytelling to life for all ages

Speaking about the new workshop programme Andrea Campbell, Arts Development Officer of the Alley Theatre commented “We’re thrilled to offer these workshops as part of our commitment to providing creative opportunities for everyone in Strabane and beyond.  Whether you’re looking to pick up a new hobby, try something hands-on, or meet like-minded creatives, these workshops are all about inspiring confidence and creativity. We look forward to welcoming participants of all ages to these engaging and fun classes.”

Workshops are filling up quickly, so don’t miss out on your chance to be part of this creative spring season at The Alley Theatre. To book please visit the Alley Theatre website www.alley-theatre.com or call the box office on 028 71 384444.