Skylight has gone from strength to strength this year – again. This despite the funding challenges lots of us face as the need for arts and culture- and its transformative power for individuals and communities- grows while the funds available to support enrichment decrease. Yet, we’ve delivered some big numbers. 

Over 9,300 people found their own bit of circus joy at our studio, in school, at community centres and at events and festivals around Greater Manchester and the North West. A staggering 500 plus workshops from our tiny dedicated team of staff and freelancers led by Skylight’s Creative Director, Martine Bradford.

 We’ve done great work in schools around the impact of COVID – an increasingly urgent need – with fantastic partners like Curious Minds and the amazing Early Help and Schools team at Rochdale Borough Council.

There have been some incredible creative highlights. ‘Sparrow Hill’- named for our locale- saw over 80 multi-generational performers take their circus skills to the spectacular St.Chad’s Church, thanks to funding from Arts Council England, National Lottery Heritage and lastly, but by no means least, the inspired team at Rochdale Public Health.

 There are smaller stories too. Stories of individual joy found in less glamorous but equally valuable projects like Children In Need supported sessions, Holiday At Home and NHS funded workshops in community centres, pupil referral units and special schools.

Don’t take my word for it though. It’s all there in our latest impact video. A heart-warming, soul-feeding 5 minute reminder of why we all do what we do to support people through life affirming, changing and enriching arts and culture.

Thanks to all who helped us along the way.

David, Skylight’s CEO

“What an amazing year!  It’s been a joyful, year of circus with a purpose .”

Martine Bradford, Creative Director

Video produced by Dawn Pierson
Music by Steve Broomhead
Team Wellbeing and Show photos by Ian Hodgson
Additional media by Charma Force