Imaginate Information

Imaginate is the national organisation in Scotland which promotes, develops and advocates for theatre and dance for children and young people. Research shows that watching and talking about theatre and dance increases children’s confidence and imaginative skills, fosters empathy, and can raise aspirations. Imaginate works to enable more children across Scotland to enjoy more high quality theatre and dance, more often. Our work falls into three strands. 1. The Edinburgh International Children’s Festival: a celebration of the world’s best theatre and dance for young audiences, attracting 17,000 children, parents, teachers and arts professionals annually. In 2018, The Herald newspaper called it: ‘The highest quality, most carefully curated performing arts showcase in Scotland’. 2. A year-round programme for schools. We deliver Theatre in Schools Scotland, the national touring programme of high-quality, affordable performances for schools, in partnership with National Theatre of Scotland. We also deliver focused projects to develop children and teachers’ creativity, including a 3-year partnership with 6 disadvantaged Edinburgh schools, in association with Punchdrunk Theatre. 3. A year-round Creative Development Programme for artists who make theatre and dance for children. This includes projects to develop artistic practice and support productions, networking events, mentoring, and a Go and See Fund.