Creating Space for Wellbeing at Front Room

At Front Room, we often talk about the power of creativity to bring people together, start conversations and be entertained. But beyond this, we also see the huge impact that gathering, listening to stories and engaging with the arts has on wellbeing.

The connection between creativity, culture and wellbeing is something we think about a lot at front room and recognise its importance. It is something we witness constantly through conversations at the bar, the friendships that form at events, the volunteers who tell us they feel safe here, and the audiences who return again and again because Front Room has become part of their routine and support network. Testimonials from our community repeatedly speak about the positive impact Front Room has had on confidence, connection, creativity and emotional wellbeing.

Because of this, when planning our recent programme, we specifically included funding to launch a series of free wellbeing workshops for adults in the community which was kindly granted by Arts Council England. These workshops were designed to create relaxed, pressure-free spaces where people could reconnect with themselves and others through play, movement, laughter, mindfulness and creativity.

Across the programme, each workshop approaches wellbeing from a different angle.

In June and August, Happiness Facilitator Mia Borthwick leads Play, Happiness & Laughter, a joyful workshop focused on reconnecting adults with playfulness and curiosity through games, movement and shared laughter. The sessions are deliberately low-pressure and accessible, inviting people to let go of expectations and rediscover the simple joy of playing together.

In May and September, Front Room co-director Emma Keaveney-Roys facilitates Improv for Confidence, an afternoon of easy, non-performative improv games designed to help participants build confidence, embrace uncertainty and get out of their heads and into their bodies. The focus is not on performance or being “good” at improv, but on creating a supportive environment where people can laugh, connect and gently push themselves beyond their comfort zones.

Then in July and October, Charlotte Gee leads Yin Yoga and Mindfulness, a calming blend of yin yoga, breath work and guided meditation aimed at helping people slow down, switch off and reconnect with themselves. These sessions offer space for stillness and reflection, encouraging present-moment awareness and emotional clarity.

Although the workshops are all very different in style, they are connected by a shared philosophy: wellbeing does not have to look clinical, formal or intimidating. Sometimes wellbeing can simply mean laughing with strangers, moving your body, taking a breath, trying something new or giving yourself permission to slow down.

Importantly, these workshops are for everyone. No experience is needed. There is no expectation to perform, be outgoing, flexible or confident. Front Room has always tried to create spaces where people feel welcomed as they are, and these workshops continue that approach.

The response to Front Room over the past year has reinforced why this work matters. Community members have spoken about the venue helping reduce isolation, providing safe and low-pressure social spaces, supporting mental wellbeing and giving people access to culture and creativity that they otherwise would not have experienced. Others have described Front Room as a place that helps people feel connected, inspired and supported in a town where accessible creative spaces can often feel limited.

These wellbeing workshops are an extension of that ethos. They are not separate from Front Room’s wider programme; they are part of the same belief that culture, creativity and community care are deeply connected.

As a small independent venue, we are proud to be able to offer these sessions free to the community, and we are excited to see how they continue to grow. There will be more coming next year (including a drag workshop!) so keep your eyes peeled for more announcements.