Our History 1987-1997
1987-1997
During the following ten years Valleys Kids and HRH Prince Charles open their base in Penygraig – Soar Ffrwdamos. Valleys Kids began to explore the theatre and appointed a technician and upgraded the theatre space. Valleys Kids then turned its focus to open access play provision and began to teach and realise the importance of playing.
- 1987
- Soar Ffrwdamos Centre opened by HRH Prince Charles, Prince of Wales.
- A programme of Theatre, Dance and Music was established.
- Activities to young people expanded.
- 1988
- Return visit from Lord Hunt who said, “Right from the beginning we spotted the need for this project… It is a model example and there is nothing quite like it in the Principality”.
- 1989
- Garages between Cross Street and Soar purchased for storage and conversion into workshops.
- A positive report as a result of an inspection from HM Inspectors.
- 1990
- Theatre Space in Soar Ffrwdamos Centre upgraded.
- 1991
- Grant from Rhondda Borough Council to employ a Technician.
- 1992
- Play Development Worker appointed with a Rhondda wide remit to support local groups to develop open access play.
- First Youth Theatre Performance.
- Community Access to Technology project established to encourage local people to become computer literate and familiar with modern communication technology.
- Founder member of Rhondda Youth Unemployment Forum.
- 1993
- “Valley’s Motor Project” establish in partnership with Probation and Social Services to work with young people, offenders and non-offenders.
- First International exchange with Irish community in Wexford.
- 1996
- ‘Bridges’ Community Support Scheme' established to support community development work throughout Rhondda Cynon Taff.
- A part time Youth Theatre worker appointed to develop the arts work with young people.
- Co-ordinated the consultation conference for the Social Services department using theatre and arts techniques.
- Founder member of Rhondda Cynon Taff Play Association
