SONG and theatre in Okehampton have been given a boost thanks to two grants made by the town council. The town council made a grant of £250 to Okehampton Youth Chorus, an a capella singing group for youngsters in the Okehampton area. The singing group promoted by Wren gives young people the chance to learn about folk and roots music and perform songs from the past. The council also awarded a grant of £500 to the Get Changed Theatre Company which supports adults with learning disabilities to stage plays about issues relevant to them. Mayor of Okehampton Cllr Tony Leech said he had recently had the opportunity to see a performance of the group?s latest play, which he described as ?extremely worthwhile and thought provoking?. He said Get Changed provided a unique service for those with learning disabilities and he supported their grant application. Councillors considered the grant aid applications at last Monday?s meeting of the policy and resources committee. And the performing arts are being used as a tool to encourage people in the Okehampton area to recycle their household waste. The Rubbish Heads is a street performance created by the Desperate Men Company, a street theatre company based in Bristol. The performers have been drafted in by Devon County Council to help spread the recycling message. Their county-wide tour continues next week when they visit West Devon Borough Council car park in Okehampton on Saturday, October 8 from 11.30am to 12.30pm. The Rubbish Head creatures attract interest and cause intrigue with their captivating, silent display of ritual behaviour which demonstrates what a throw-away society we live in. Devon County Council and Exeter City Council recycling teams will accompany the Rubbish Heads to offer help and advice on recycling and give away free reusable cotton shopping bags.
