Unexpected Places was founded in 2015 as a not-for-profit theatre company, creating productions in and around Southampton. Artistic Director Rosanna Sloan wanted to bring unexpected performances to the public, specialising in theatrical emotive storytelling; early work toured to The Edinburgh Fringe and Bristol Festival of Puppetry, where Unexpected Places began to turn heads. 

 

In May 2021 Unexpected Places became a registered charity dedicated to increasing public education and appreciation of the performing arts and received funding to produce one of their most ambitious projects so far.

 

Back home, Rosanna noticed a lack of affordable drama classes for children and young people in the Hampshire area. Light UP drama was formed to make the performing arts more accessible to local communities. The classes were quickly popular, which saw Light UP expanding into running workshops during half terms with themed Christmas and Summer projects in the school holidays. Since 2018 it has diversified its offering to include musical theatre and classes for the home education community.

 

In 2020, Unexpected Places found a venue that would give them a permanent home and a base for children to visit; a space to continue their education and outreach programs and rehearse new productions. UP Studios comprises a drama studio, dance studio and office space and has become Unexpected Places HQ. Not only does it bring the creative space needed for professionals and young people to exercise their talents, the venue is also available for hire to artists and the community.

 

In September 2021 Little Lights was launched, a 6 week course of creative and sensory sessions for 0-3yr olds. Initially funded by the National Lottery Community fund, the sessions have become much loved in the community and the second course will be launched in November.
 

Where will we go next?