The John Bunyan Museum has just finished a spectacular project in partnership with Full House Theatre. A project which took place on six days across two weeks in March; when, during twelve sessions, over 800 schoolchildren plus their teachers, assistants and carers took part in an amazing interactive experience in the church, large hall, and the museum. They participated in a dynamic and exciting theatre experience learning about John Bunyan and The Pilgrim’s Progress. The children could take pride in Bedford, realise the legacy of Bunyan, and the significance of his writing over the years.
Trustee, Cherry Protheroe said,
“What a phenomenal first for the church and museum. It was awesome (as in “awe and wonder” – Ofsted criteria!) for the children but also for those of us privileged to work with them and the actors over those six days. To see and hear the children’s reactions particularly in the museum scenes: in the kitchen, Bunyan preaching from the pulpit and in the prison cell; as well as during the finale in the church, was quite moving and I think something they and we will remember for some time to come.”
Many of the children were also working on their Discover Arts Award a nationally recognised award, accredited by Trinity College London and took away with them a beautifully produced booklet to which they contributed throughout the session. As well as their memories they will also have a tangible record of their time with us.
Pulpits and Prison Doors was subsidised through Arts Council England which, with additional grants from The Friends of the John Bunyan Museum and the Mrs. BL Robinson Charitable Trust, made it accessible and affordable for the schools,. Thanks must go to Nicola our curator; the enthusiastic and professional team from Full House; and our own fantastic team of volunteers/museum stewards who made the whole project possible.
The John Bunyan Museum is open Tuesday to Saturday 11.00am – 4.00pm and admission is free.
For more details contact the Curator Nicola Sherhod on 01234 270303
or email curator@bunyanmeeting.co.uk
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