Established in 2007 by artistic director and CEO Toby Ealden, Zest Theatre are a multidisciplinary arts organisation that produces work for and with young people. Zest use creativity to amplify youth voices through shared cultural experiences and theatre productions. Their work spans festivals, installations, public spaces, theatres and digital platforms. The company is unique as it integrates young people into every strand of its decision-making, with a designated group of teenagers on the arts board who lead on consultation, strategy, and execution. This ensures that their work is rich in collaboration and gives Zest a real insight into the lives of their intended audience, meaning the work both represents and speaks directly to young adults.
The Zone was curated in partnership with sustainable outdoor architecture firm AirClad and is housed in a state-of-the-art trailer, complete with outdoor decking and inflatables. Visitors were able to take part in an array of free-to-attend activities including DJ and street dance classes, parkour sessions and art projects. As it is mobile, The Zone could be used to fill the gap left by the closure of permanent youth spaces and it is hoped that the project will be rolled out to the communities most in need.
In a recent study published by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport, a clear correlation was discovered between “participation in youth provision and positive short-term outcomes relating to physical health and wellbeing, pro-social behaviours and education” (2024). The longitudinal research covers different generations of young people between the 1970s to 2000s and explores the effects of weekly participation in youth clubs on outcomes in later life. Despite a plethora of research evidencing the intrinsic link between youth spaces and improved health, wellbeing and behaviour: youth spaces up and down the country continue to close at an alarming rate. It is unsurprising then, that the demand for The Zone was so high, with young people crying out for bespoke spaces to connect.
Between 2011 and 2021, "95% of local authorities reduced their real terms spending on youth services by at least a quarter" forcing many youth centres to close. (2024). The Zone directly responds to this chronic lack of space by giving young people an area to feel valued and included in their local community. With the creation of The Zone, Zest has provided a real solution to an unprecedented problem that not only benefits youth culture in Lincoln but could also serve others on a national scale. Real-life social connections are proven to counter the negative effects of social media by boosting confidence and building friendships. So, if both the benefit and demand are there, then where is the provision?
The incredible success of this initiative highlights that now more than ever, it is vital that young people are given bespoke, safe spaces to be themselves. At a time of continued crisis, culture and creativity provide an outlet for kids and teens to be celebrated. With communities crying out for innovative and cost-effective solutions to unify and enhance the well-being of our young people, more organisations should follow in Zest Theatre’s footsteps.
The Zone will return to Lincoln in the Summer of 2025. You can read more about it here:
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