Jigsaw Hitchin Launch!

 

shaun-parker-jigsaw-franchisee

 

Meet Shaun! The owner of Jigsaw Hitchin and Jigsaw Sevenoaks.

 

Shaun has been involved in Performing Arts for over 15 years and went on to study at Anglian Ruskin University. After appearing in various productions in Hertfordshire, he got his first television appearance on ‘The Pride of Britain Awards’ and went on to feature in the film ‘The Worlds End’. In recent years he has started his own theatre company, writing original plays for theatre and community based venues. Shaun is very excited for the term ahead at Jigsaw Hitchin!

 

We asked Shaun what drew him to Jigsaw and his response was “Potentially getting the opportunity to inspire young people. I feel all arts are massively important for a child’s confidence, mental health and well-being and I thought Jigsaw was the best chance and platform for me to be able to do this.”

 

Much like our other Jigsaw schools, Shaun’s goal for the future of Jigsaw Hitchin is to create a community and a sense of belonging for the students and families that join.

 

Shaun is also excited to welcome new teachers to the Jigsaw team. At Jigsaw, we take every care when selecting new teachers for a school. They all have experience in teaching or a formal qualification, with many still working professionally in the performing arts industry. All teachers have a DBS check and attend Jigsaw Arts teacher training sessions to provide consistent tutoring across our schools. Most importantly, Jigsaw Arts make sure that our teachers provide bespoke, fun and engaging sessions that benefit every individual.

 

Jigsaw Hitchin will run on Sunday Mornings at The Dance Studio, Unit 2A Old Hall Farmyard in Hitchin. Welcoming all students from ages 3-18. Jigsaw do offer a two-week trial to new students so that you can decide if you have found your place to belong at Jigsaw!

 

We wish Shaun the best of luck with the launch of Jigsaw Hitchin and can’t wait for the wonderful term ahead.

 

Spotlight on work experience student Yazmin!

Spotlight on work experience student Yazmin!

 

Yasmin work experience Jigsaw

 

Yazmin joins us this week in head office for her work experience and has been set a range of tasks, from arranging party bags for our 20th anniversary celebrations to learning the ins and outs of running the Jigsaw agency. She has been attending Jigsaw Ilford for 11 years now and here is an interview with Yazmin herself to find out more about her Jigsaw journey…

Where are you from? What school do you go to?

I live in Leytonstone and I attend Jigsaw Ilford.

When did you start at Jigsaw?

I started Jigsaw at the age of 4.

Do you have any brothers or sisters?  Do they attend Jigsaw?

My sister Zoe is 8 years old and also attends Jigsaw.

Why did you decide to come to Jigsaw?

My Mum wanted me to build my confidence up from a young age.

What’s your favourite subject at Jigsaw?

Dance is my absolute favourite because it is so much fun!

What’s the best thing about Jigsaw?

I love meeting new friends and being able to try out new skills!

What’s your favourite show that you’ve been in at Jigsaw?

Sister Act was my favourite because it was so different from anything we have done before. I loved it!

What do you feel you’ve gained from being at Jigsaw?

I feel as though I have gained a lot of confidence from all my years at Jigsaw so far.

Have you had a favourite teacher at Jigsaw?

No – I have liked them all!

What’s your ambition for the future?

To have a career within the performing arts – watch this space!

Anything else you think we should know about you?

I have a black belt in karate after 6 years!

And finally… how is work experience at Jigsaw head office?

I have found it a very fun and interesting week so far!

Jigsaw Performing Arts is dedicated to developing performance skills, promoting self-expression and building confidence. We offer performing arts classes for children aged between 3 – 18. Find your nearest school by entering your postcode into the search on our home page

“Wicked” the musical!

“Wicked” the musical! When Dorothy famously triumphed over the Wicked Witch we only ever heard one side of the story.

“Wicked” is set in the re-imagined Land of Oz creating a parallel universe to the familiar story “The Wizard of Oz”. We follow the incredible untold story of a profound but quirky friendship between two girls who first met as sorcery students at Shiz University. One is called Glinda – the popular, beautiful, blonde girl – and the other is Elphaba – the green and misunderstood witch.

Following their encounter with “The Wizard of Oz” their friendship reaches a crossroads and their lives suddenly take very different paths. Elphaba proves to have determination of steel as she chooses to remain true to herself and uses her powers to fight for what she believes in. However Glinda who has an unflinching desire for popularity, is quickly seduced by power, and they both follow extraordinary adventures in Oz to finally reach their destinies as “Glinda The Good” and “The Wicked Witch of the West”.

“Wicked” is very much known for its superb score by Stephen Schwartz as it features extremely demanding songs such as “Defying Gravity” and “The Wizard and I”. I was impressed with both actresses playing Glinda and Elphaba as they had outstanding voices that very much suited their characters and they both gave flawless performances. This show has an incredible amount of costume changes and I particularly enjoyed the Tim Burton-inspired theme carried out through the ensemble of slightly hypnotic characters. The choreography and ensemble singing was all very tight, catchy and certainly carried the show as the story unravels.

If I had to sum up this musical in one sentence I would say that it tells a universal story, with characters that will break your heart, memorable songs and generally there is wit and charm in abundance. Visually this show is very striking and with lots of children and young people in the audience, from what I could tell they were all hooked!

Be sure to get tickets!

Jigsaw Performing Arts is dedicated to developing performance skills, promoting self-expression and building confidence. We offer performing arts classes for children aged between 3 – 18. Find your nearest school by entering your postcode into the search on our home page

Where Are They Now? Catriona & Jessica

Where Are They Now? Catriona & Jessica

Click here for part one. 

This week we hear from former Jigsaw students Catriona and Jessica who have shared with us an insight into their Jigsaw journeys and how they made an impact on their chosen career path. Catriona is now a Theatre Director and Jessica is about to start her PGCE for Primary Teaching!

Where are they now: Catriona Shoobridge

Which Jigsaw school did you attend?

I attended Jigsaw Waltham Abbey, which is now known as Jigsaw Broxbourne!

How long did you attend Jigsaw for?

Really can’t remember what age I was when I first came along…11 maybe? I can can tell you that I started in Group 2 and did my last performance with JYTC when I was 20 – hopefully you can work it out from there!

What are you doing now?

I’m a theatre director. In 2014 I was one of the Jerwood Assistant Directors at The Young Vic, assisting on The Cherry Orchard and I’ve just been invited to do the National Theatre‘s Director’s Course this September.

How did Jigsaw help you?

Lots! It turned my love of telling stories and performing to my family into something tangible, with real skills I could develop. JYTC gave me the opportunity to perform in professional venues, and to be taught by industry professionals, something that is vital in order to be able to realise a potential career path in such a complex industry. Not to mention some lifelong best friends!

 

Where are they now:  Jess Ettridge

Which Jigsaw school did you attend?

I attended Bexleyheath Jigsaw school and then went on to attend what was the South London Youth Theatre up until it became the Youth Theatre for the whole of London.

How long did you attend Jigsaw for?

I attended Jigsaw for 10 years overall, starting at Bexleyheath when I was 9 for 8 years and then a further 2 years in the Youth Theatre.

What are you doing now?

I have just completed my Bachelor of Arts in Theatre Studies from Brunel University and am now back at Brunel doing my PGCE to become a primary school teacher!

How did Jigsaw help you?

Jigsaw helped me massively in increasing my confidence and self-esteem and encouraging me to pursue acting further in education and later, University. It also gave me tons of amazing memories and brilliant friends!

Jigsaw Performing Arts is dedicated to developing performance skills, promoting self-expression and building confidence. We offer performing arts classes for children aged between 3 – 18. Find your nearest school by entering your postcode into the search on our home page

Where Are They Now? Tara, Jack & Lewis

Where Are They Now? Tara, Jack & Lewis

It has been an exciting time to catch up with former students and see what they have been up to now that they’re all grown up! We have caught up with three of them to find out about their experience at Jigsaw when they were younger and to see how it has helped them on their journey into adulthood! Meet Tara, Jack and Lewis…

 

Where are they now: Tara Edwards-Jones

Which Jigsaw school did you attend?

Hendon

How long did you attend Jigsaw for?

9 Years

What are you doing now?

I Just finished studying Performance at University and am now modelling and doing other bits alongside writing my book, whilst I save up to travel. Then I’ll see where the world takes me!

How did Jigsaw help you?

Jigsaw helped me improve my confidence and discover my love for the arts!

 

Where are they now: Jack Matthews

Which Jigsaw school did you attend?

I went to Jigsaw Wanstead/Ilford.

How long did you attend Jigsaw for?

I attended Jigsaw for 13 years

What are you doing now?

I am currently at university studying television & broadcasting trying to pursue a career in television, whether it be presenting, directing, producing or floor managing. I still act, dance and sing and have been in a couple shows since leaving Jigsaw 2 years ago.

How did Jigsaw help you?

Jigsaw helped me by giving me the opportunity to explore my talents and skills in acting, singing and dance. Also it helped me as a child to be open to making new friends and confident enough to communicate well with others. I struggled with being on time a lot for a good while and thanks to Nikki I now have good time keeping skills. Also Nikki and Andy taught me a great work ethic, making me understand that nothing comes easy and I’m going to have to work to the best of my ability to get what i want in life. (Thank you Jigsaw!).

 

Where are they now:  Lewis Meade

Which Jigsaw school did you attend?

Croydon

How long did you attend Jigsaw for?

7 years

What are you doing now?

I’m currently working as a Production and Acquisitions Assistant at the Weinstein Company and about to study for an MA in Producing Film and Television at Royal Holloway in London.

How did Jigsaw help you?

Jigsaw gave me the opportunity to develop my confidence and interpersonal skills. Through attending the Croydon school and the South London Youth Theatre I had the chance to further strengthen those skills I already possessed and improve those which were slightly weaker.  Jigsaw gave me a huge amount of confidence which has allowed me to pursue a career in theatre and film production.

Jigsaw Performing Arts is dedicated to developing performance skills, promoting self-expression and building confidence. We offer performing arts classes for children aged between 3 – 18. Find your nearest school by entering your postcode into the search on our home page

What makes Jigsaw so unique?

One of the greatest joys of doing my job is that I get to regularly visit all of our Jigsaw Schools. Yes, the obvious ‘business’ advantage is that I get to make sure that the classes we offer are of a consistently high standard right across the board. However, the most interesting thing about the visits for me is observing just how different and unique all of our Jigsaw Schools are.

Each and every student at Jigsaw contributes towards creating an exciting and dynamic atmosphere, and it is very clear that each Jigsaw school has its own identity and personality. It is always difficult to pin point exactly why this is. Perhaps it is down to the manager setting the tone for the school? Yet many of our managers work at more than one Jigsaw School and they will tell you how different their schools are.

I often hear teachers as well saying that they love both schools that they teach at, but they’re so very different. This to me is the beauty of what Jigsaw stands for. We work hard to ensure that Jigsaw is all about the individual and the journey each child experiences. If we just produced the same generic classes, presentations and shows at each school then this would be OK I imagine. However – the focus wouldn’t be on the individual kids. It would just be about churning out some Performing Classes.

It is very clear to me that each manager and teaching team at Jigsaw caters for the specific children they have attending their schools every weekend. This is why I love Jigsaw and it is this that makes my job so varied every weekend. However, somehow with these differences every school remains part of the ‘Jigsaw Gang’ and this very much comes across in our recent 20th Anniversary video. I hope you all had the chance to watch this:

I am looking forward to the new Autumn term starting as I continue to visit all the existing schools and see that our new Franchisees in WatfordMitcham and St Albans begin their Jigsaw journey with the same success. It will be great to see some familiar faces, as well as meeting and welcoming all of the new students who will soon form part of these schools.

See you all in September!

Jigsaw Arts General Manager

Jigsaw Performing Arts is dedicated to developing performance skills, promoting self-expression and building confidence. We offer performing arts classes for children aged between 3 – 18. Find your nearest school by entering your postcode into the search on our home page

What Does My Child Need?

What Does My Child Need?

What does my child need? Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools blog post

Every child develops in different ways. But what they might not understand is that performing arts aren’t just for the naturally theatrically inclined, or those seeking a showbiz career. It has benefits across all aspects of life.

What does your child need? And could they find it in the performing arts?

1) Focus

It can be invaluable to put aside a certain amount of time every week, to wall it off from that outside world and really focus on being in the moment and working with others.

The satisfaction of rehearsing and honing a piece of theatre, singing or dance over time far outweighs simple instant gratification.

2) Confidence

Confidence factors into so many of the skills that set a child up for a happy and successful life. And often it’s the shy children who, with the right support, can become the greatest performers.

3) Exercise

The collaborative and creative nature of acting and dance make for a type of exercise that’s enjoyable and rewarding in a different way.

4) Creativity

This can leave children without much opportunity to express themselves creatively. The performing arts are about creating a space that feels secure, where a performer can try things out and not worry about failing or being embarrassed.

5) Friendship

Again, the collaborative and welcoming nature of performing arts makes a basis for lifelong friendships. For children, this supportive environment is perfect for friendships to form and grow, creating good memories and experiences outside of the strictures of school.

We’re coming to the end of term at Jigsaw, and as well as shows and presentations that means, for parents of those at schools on a Technique term, reports.

They operate on this philosophy. What is each individual child’s goal? How have they grown, where do they want to develop, and who do they want to become? What does your child need?

There is no one size fits all approach, just like no two children are the same. But they’ll always be welcome at Jigsaw.

Jigsaw Performing Arts is dedicated to developing performance skills, promoting self-expression and building confidence. We offer performing arts classes for children aged between 3 – 18. Find your nearest school by entering your postcode into the search on our home page

What Does The Future Hold? JYT

What does the future hold for ex-Jigsaw students and Jigsaw Youth Theatre Members?

future hold
Early Years

When I was much younger, maybe four or five years old, I attended a Jigsaw Arts Summer School. For the next two years I would continue this routine. Then, 8 years later, I started attending the Jigsaw Finchley weekend school on Sunday mornings. I made many new friends, and the experience was one that was invaluable, and is still unforgettable. When I decided to leave Jigsaw Finchley, I was invited to join the Jigsaw Youth Theatre Company (JYTC).

Youth Theatre

At first I didn’t know what to expect from JYTC, as I thoroughly enjoy all the three disciplines of performing arts. It was strange for me to be in an environment that focused specifically on drama. In September 2014 I attended my first ever Youth Theatre session and it was explained that we would be participating in the National Theatre’s ‘Connections’ Festival.

My First Show

The weeks went by and we started learning our lines and blocking scenes. I was playing Mr Ellody, the owner of an accordion shop, in the play The Accordion Shop, by Cush Jumbo. Under the brilliant direction from our wonderful director, Kate Cohen, I was able to create a fully realistic character, and the performance as a whole was wonderful.

The Next Steps

I took a break for a term as my exams were approaching at school. When I returned in September 2015, there was a very different group of people. Over the first few weeks we all became very close, and we started to rehearse for our next performance, The Beauty Manifesto, by Nell Leyshon. We decided to double cast the play, and this raised some eyebrows, especially when certain cast members where unable to make the rehearsals!

What does the future hold?

Personally, I would like to receive my GCSE results this August, and then spend the next two years studying for Drama, Spanish, Maths and Chemistry A-Levels. After that I would love to continue on to a performing arts school, such as Mountview or ArtsEd, and then hopefully perform in the West End.

 

Jigsaw Performing Arts is dedicated to developing performance skills, promoting self-expression and building confidence. We offer performing arts classes for children aged between 3 – 18. Find your nearest school by entering your postcode into the search on our home page

West End Run in Tina Turner the Musical Extended for Myles Grant

Myles - Tina Turner, West End - Jigsaw Performing Arts Schools

Tina – The Tina Turner Musical tells the story of the singer who hailed from Tennessee and overcome great obstacles to become the legendary Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll.

Congratulations Myles! How did you feel when you heard the news that you were continuing with Tina Turner the musical?

When I heard the news that I was continuing with the Tina Turner Musical, I was totally overjoyed and excited. I only expected to be there for 6 months, so having an extension feels absolutely awesome.

Tell us a little about your role?

Well, I play the role of Tina Turner’s youngest son, Craig. Due to my contract I’m unable to discuss the role, so come and see the show!

What has been your best or favourite moment so far?

My best and favourite moment is just having this once in a life-time experience, being able to perform in front of a packed theatre every week. I feel as though I have achieved a great deal of confidence and learned a lot from being around so many professional actors.   

How do you think Jigsaw helped you?

Having been a member of Jigsaw Watford for a while, they have a fantastic talented team who have encouraged and supported me from day one and believed in me. Jigsaw allowed me to be myself and always taught me to perform as if it was my last ever performance, meaning always do my best.

How do you balance performing with school and other things you like to do?

Since being in The Tina Turner Musical, my school Lanchester Community Free School have been totally supportive and have encouraged other young pupils like myself to follow their dreams.

Although I know I don’t see my friends as much these days due to my busy schedule, they do understand. I know they think I must be having a lot of fun just being in the musical, but I still do normal stuff like school homework and read as much as I can so I’m not behind in my studies. Mum and Dad always tell me that I must have a plan B if Plan A doesn’t work out. Education is first and foremost.

What are your favourite musicals and what would be your dream role in the future?

My obvious favourite musical is The Tina Turner Musical. My other favourite musicals are Lion KingMotown and School of Rock. If I were to pick a dream role to have in the future, it would be a superhero who saves the world. People always love the good guy and a great ending.

Thanks to Myles for answering our questions and congratulations again on your great achievement!

Tina Turner is currently running at the Aldwych Theatre in London. For more information and to book tickets, visit www.tinathemusical.com.

Jigsaw Performing Arts is dedicated to developing performance skills, promoting self-expression and building confidence. We offer performing arts classes for children aged between 3 – 18. Find your nearest school by entering your postcode into the search on our home page

The Value of Creativity

This guest blog post on children’s creativity is written by Emily, manager of Jigsaw Balham

I have had the pleasure of working with Jigsaw Arts for a number of years as a singing, drama and dance teacher, and in the last year have become the manager for the brilliant Jigsaw Balham. I have been engaged with the arts since the age of 2 and a half and have worked with children for many years as a performing arts facilitator and teacher. Having recently completed an Applied Theatre MA at The Royal Central School of Speech and Drama, I have developed a greater understanding for the need and value of the arts.

During my MA I studied the impact the arts can have on a child’s education, social media and pop culture’s affect on secondary school students as well as the joy cultivated through arts and culture.

I think it is growing ever important for us to embrace children’s creative minds and give them the space to grow and develop. Jigsaw provides an inclusive and welcoming space, where children can explore and feel valued in a place where everyone belongs. Utilising professional teachers who specialise in their art, not only do the children have the chance to engage with creativity, but they have the opportunity to learn an art form to a high level from an inspiring teacher.

In the last year, I have watched a number of children at both Jigsaw Balham and Jigsaw Ilford grow in confidence. One specific child really struggled on her first  Saturday to even tell other children her name and didn’t want to leave her parents side. In the space of a few months, I have watched her confidence grow, to see her put herself on the front row in the dance in our recent show.

“The difference is astounding”

Through attending our weekly sessions, the difference is astounding. I have witnessed lots of children go through this, and always have parents express how much the few hours we have with their children impact their child’s life. The children have the opportunity to build friendships with children of a similar age outside of school, and role model for the younger children.

Singing, dancing and playing different characters gives our children the chance to develop valuable skills unique to the craft. Pride, joy, happiness and fun are promoted through every minute of a Jigsaw class, and children feel leaving energised and enthusiastic, their mind flowing with creativity. As well as the value of joy, children are offered choice and given responsibility for their engagement.

Problem solving, teamwork, spatial awareness, self-awareness and time management are all pivotal in the production of drama, dance and art, and are skills, which are key to being successful as they grow up and become valued members of society. As well as expanding the creative mind, taking part in arts activities can foster benefits of health and wellbeing, improving body awareness, spatial awareness, breathing and posture.

Jigsaw is not about building the next West End stars, but instead about giving children the space to explore who they are, make friends and build up life-long transferable skills. Expanding on the innate feelings of play children explore in their formative years of childhood, Jigsaw offer children an authentic experience where they can feel they have a place of worth and be proud of their creativity.

As a teacher and manager, I take the time to get to know each individual child and parent and show a genuine interest in the wonderful stories they share with me. I enjoy watching the children really come alive from the help of our wonderful teachers and assistants.

Jigsaw offers more than just singing, dance and drama, it offers a sense of family, joy and pride.

Jigsaw Performing Arts is dedicated to developing performance skills, promoting self-expression and building confidence. We offer performing arts classes for children aged between 3 – 18. Find your nearest school by entering your postcode into the search on our home page