BASINGSTOKE’S Fluid Motion Theatre Company is only 10% away from reaching its total project target to allow 200 children and young people the chance to take part in a unique street performance experience.

The Streetspeare Schools Project (SSP) is a site-specific project that enhances young people's understanding of Shakespeare through giving them the opportunity to perform outdoors with other schools to the general public.

This project also aims to provide cultural opportunity to those students who might not normally have the chance.

SSP will work with six primary and secondary schools in Hampshire, engaging with 200 children and young people.

SSP provides the opportunity for Year 5/6 and 7/8 students to work together to explore the effectiveness of drama and Shakespeare in facilitating successful transition from primary to secondary.

Many primary school children feel anxious, scared and unhappy about moving up to 'big school' and some secondary students feel similar concerns about new children moving up.

Leigh Johnstone, artistic director at Fluid Motion, said: “We feel that something needs to be done to help children overcome their fears and enable this big step to become an enjoyable time in their lives.

“To do this young people will engage in mixed weekly after school activities from October 14 - May 15. Initially, this will include exploratory theatre/Shakespeare workshops and sessions around Arts Award (Explore – Silver).”

From January students will work with a professional theatre director, exploring physical theatre, Shakespeare from page to stage and outdoor theatre making.

Students also have the opportunity to work with Anvil Arts, who will provide work experience opportunities, backstage tours and free theatre tickets.

Pledges start from £5.

Find out more online at crowdfunder.co.uk/the-streetspeare-schools-project.