Our Programmes
Creative programmes bringing artists and communities together
Festival in a Van is committed to bringing participatory arts into the heart of communities. Our unique approach — and our trusty van — allow us to bring artists and audiences together, encouraging engagement and co-creation across different backgrounds, interests and cultures. Through accessible, artist-led programmes, we celebrate the essential role of the arts in community life, creating opportunities for connection, new work and shared creative experiences..
From music and songwriting to storytelling, performance and creative collaboration, our programmes create opportunities for people to take part, develop ideas and make work together.
Our Participatory Arts Programmes
Songlines
Songlines brings poetry, storytelling and music into care homes and residential settings, creating meaningful connections through creativity. Working alongside professional poets and musicians, older people share memories, stories and experiences that inspire original poems and songs. The project celebrates each participant’s voice and creativity, culminating in a joyful live performance from the Festival in a Van stage, where their stories are brought to life through words and music.
What Makes a Man
What Makes a Man is an artist-led creative writing and spoken word programme that creates a supportive, non-judgemental space for young men to explore identity, masculinity, belonging and emotional expression. Through writing, conversation and spoken word, professional artists encourage participants to reflect on their experiences, question expectations and develop their own creative voices. The programme places trust, self-expression and collaboration at the heart of the creative process.
Our Other Programmes
The Jukebox Project
The Jukebox Project, developed in collaboration with the HSE and Mental Health Ireland, invites people living in community residences to choose their favourite songs and poems, sharing the memories and stories behind them. Their choices shape a personalised setlist, brought to their door by professional musicians in an interactive Festival in a Van performance.
Shared Music Sessions
Shared Music Sessions brings traditional Irish musicians together with people of different nationalities living in residential settings. Through playing, listening and creating music together, the programme encourages cultural exchange, connection and shared musical experiences.
Work With Us
Festival in a Van works with communities, care settings, youth services, local authorities and arts partners to develop participatory arts programmes shaped around people and place.
If you’re interested in working with us or exploring how one of our programmes could work in your community, we’d love to hear from you.
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