AKIN

A full-day workshop exploring how creative play can help us connect with ourselves, each other, and our beautiful city of Worcester. 

Join Lois, creative play facilitator & film maker for Akin. In this lighthearted, interactive workshop, we’ll use movement, storytelling, clowning to explore themes of belonging and connection.

This workshop will form part of Lois’s documentary ‘I’m Not Creative’ which asks the question, ‘Can creative play help us find connection & a deeper sense of belonging?’

In an increasingly isolated world, discovering new ways to connect and relate is key to strengthening our sense of belonging and community. When we come together to play and create, we notice our kinship; that we are linked by both our human experience and with the land we call home.

In her documentary, ‘I’m Not Creative’, Lois is on a mission to connect creatively with her hometown - Worcester. To her surprise, Worcester has been named the UK’s top city for creatives in the newly published UK Creative Cities Report 2026.

Convinced that creative play can combat her own loneliness, she is inviting Worcester locals to play, create & ultimately connect together - celebrating our kinship as citizens of this wonderful creative city.

Workshop content

Connect to Ourselves: Simple, playful exercises to tap into your imagination and inner “clown”. 

Connect with Others: Interactive games that build trust and connection without pressure. 

Connect with Worcester: A creative exploration of our city’s history, folklore, and hidden gems. We’ll pick a local spot or story and bring it to life through play. 

The Sharing: The day culminates in a sharing session where we’ll present our co-created pieces to friends and family. Note: There is absolutely no pressure to perform. You are welcome to watch.

What will the filming involve?

Throughout the day our friendly videographer, Oscar will film short sections of the workshop, documenting our process and, if we all agree, the piece we co-create to share. After the event you will be invited to do a short interview about your experiences of the day and the creative process. All of the filming is optional, you can simply enjoy the workshop without being filmed, just tell us your preferences.

FAQ’s

I am a complete beginner, can I still join?

Yes, all the activities are beginner friendly. No experience is needed to join in, this is a community event designed to include and celebrate everyone. The activities are gentle and fun and everything we do is an invitation; meaning you can join in as much or as little as you wish. We will also have creative support on the day on hand to help you if you need it.

Is there an age limit? can I bring my children along?

This workshop is for 16+ however children are welcome to watch the sharing performance at the end of the day.

Who will watch the sharing of our performance? Can I invite people to come?

We encourage participants to spread the word to their family and friends that there will be a social sharing after the workshop. Anyone who is invited can come along. There may be a few passers by who decide to watch too.

What if I don’t want to be filmed or perform, can I still join?

Being on film, whether taking part or being interviewed, is entirely optional. We will ask everyone’s preferences before starting and Oscar will take them into account when filming, taking care not to film those who do not wish to be shown. As for performing, the same goes, however we ask you not to worry too much about the performance side of things. The process of connecting and creating together is the main focus of the day. The sharing at the end is not as important, and is completely optional too.

Is the space accessible?

Yes. Arch 27 is an accessible space. If you have any specific access needs please just let us know beforehand. We are happy to accommodate your needs however we can.

Do I need to book, or can I turn up on the day?

As places are limited, we ask you to book your spot in advance. This can be done up to the day before, however we recommend you book in early to avoid disappointment. Book your spot via our contact form (see the button at the bottom of the page).