BETTER FUTURES

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​In February 2025, Naked Frank Theatre hosted Better Futures, a celebratory exhibition of young people's creativity at Whirled Cinema, London. This special event, dedicated to putting youth mental health in the spotlight, exhibited a range of student films, children's artwork, and young people's poetry, produced entirely by young people themselves and inspired by the most impactful moments of their childhoods.

"We believe that championing young people's voices is crucial in actioning change, and ensuring a brighter tomorrow."

Hosted by Naked Frank Theatre's Carleigh-Ann Portelli, and Claire Portelli, this informative event also boasted expert talks from leading mental health professionals who discussed strategies, shared experiences, and provided support and advice for creating a healthier future for the next generation. The free event allowed audiences to experience insightful art and creativity, network with industry professionals, and begin the journey of making a real difference in starting the conversation of change.

Better Futures is part of the wider project 936, a six-month research and development process exploring the 936 weeks of a child’s lifespan before they are officially considered an adult in the UK at the age of 18. The participating young people provided an invaluable insight into the world of a child and how monumental a seemingly simplistic event can be on their overall progression and development. 

"This period was designed to nurture autonomy, creativity, mindfulness, reflection, and evaluation. We set out to provide opportunities to harness practical solutions for making the creative process viable. Understanding your own past is essential in shaping the person you will become, but appreciating the common experiences can help to re-assess and ultimately reframe a better future for everyone."

CREATIVE TEAM

PARTICIPATING ARTISTS
Alfie - Ifield School
Arthur - Rowhill School
Charlie Cheatle - Rose Bruford
Chester - Rowhill School
Dylan Rhodes - Rose Bruford
Emmy - Ifield School
Jacob - Rowhill School
​K23 - Oxleas In-Patient
Kai - Ifield School
Karla - Ifield School
Nata - Ifield School
Nolan - Ifield School
Oliver - Rowhill School
Paige - Rowhill School
Phoebe - Ifield School
Princess - Rowhill School
Riley Kearney - Rose Bruford
Robert Hodgson - Rose Bruford
Ruby Kelly-Hawkins - Rose Bruford
Soren Stranger - Rose Bruford

​GUEST SPEAKERS
Alejandra Bacelar Pereira
Alexandra Bullen
Daniel Owen-Taylor
Gaia Cicolani
Hannah Stevens
Hollie Berrigan
Julia Garden
Maeve Nolan
Mark Baker
Rachel Waters
Rebecca Briley

EVENT HOSTS
Carleigh-Ann Portelli
Claire Portelli

​PRODUCTION MANAGER
Claire Portelli

PROGRAMME COORDINATOR
Carleigh-Ann Portelli

​PRODUCTION ASSISTANT
Amie Malyon

​PRODUCER
Naked Frank Theatre

VENUE
Whirled Cinema (Feb 2025)

SPECIAL THANKS TO
Ifield School
Lehni Lamide Davies
Rose Bruford College
Rowhill School
​Young Minds
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FUNDED BY
Arts Council England
​Postcode Community Trust