Open Arts ran a highly successful summer scheme, Smash, in the Ulster Hall in July. The project was funded by children in need and involved 5-9 year olds in playing the gamelan and creating artworks to enhance the performance with which it ended. It was an inclusive scheme, with children with disabilities working alongside non-disabled young people to develop their musical talents; explore new ways of being creative in the arts and have fun. The fun was very obvious, as was the increase in skills and perhaps the most surprising thing was the pleasure with which all the children soaked up the learning. We plan to run the scheme again next year, so keep your eyes open for details.
