Where’s the F-in Creativity?Festive SpecialIn this Festive Special of Where’s the F-in Creativity?, the Highly Sprung team come together to look back on a year packed with creativity, connection and joy. From creating new shows and unforgettable touring moments to those sparks of theatre magic that make it all worthwhile, a chance to reflect on the highlights that shaped the year. It’s a relaxed, joyful conversation full of laughter, pride and appreciation for the people and moments that make creativity thrive, a perfect end-of-year celebration.

In this final Where’s the F-in Creativity? Funding Special short, Youth Advisory Board members Libby, Lucy and Nell talk about the privilege and responsibility of helping decide how Highly Sprung’s funding is spent. 

They share what matters most to young people today, why access to the arts is essential, and how these opportunities have shaped their own futures.

A powerful reminder of what happens when young people are not just listened to but trusted to lead.

Lottie and Sam, current Sprung Youth members, join us as part of today’s Where’s the F-in Creativity? Funding Special to talk about the joy of taking creative risks as part of the Anthology Project’s Co-Creative Group. From trying new things to discovering what they’re capable of, they share how funded opportunities helped them grow their confidence and creativity. 

Their reflections highlight the importance of giving young people space to explore, lead and shape projects that matter to them.

Where’s the F-in Creativity? Funding Special short today sees Siàn bring a unique perspective as a Grant Manager, Highly Sprung Trustee and ex-Sprung Youth member. She talks candidly about the challenges in today’s grant-making world, the role of creativity in funding processes, and the importance of youth voice in shaping decisions. 

She also reflects on her own time in Sprung Youth and how those early experiences continue to guide her.

A thoughtful, grounded look at funding from someone who’s truly seen it from every angle.

Kian and Eve share how the Coventry Young Producers Collective opened doors they didn’t even know existed. From discovering new creative pathways to helping shape Highly Sprung’s major touring show CastAway, their story is full of surprising turns.

Both now studying drama at university, they reflect on how opportunities they never imagined have helped rewrite their futures.

A joyful reminder of what can happen when young people are trusted with real responsibility.

In this Funding Special short, Colleen, Associate Artist and Learning and Participation Co-ordinator, reflects on her journey from taking part in the Physical Fellowship in Year 8 to shaping creative opportunities for young people today. 

She talks about the joy of play, the value of youth spaces, and the small, surprising moments (including dressing up as an alien) that can spark a lifelong love of creativity.

A celebration of how funding opens doors and keeps imagination alive.

In this Funding Special, Mark and Sarah dive deep into how funding shapes Highly Sprung’s work and transforms the lives of young people. They’re joined by a brilliant panel of voices connected to Sprung Youth across the years: Colleen, Siàn, Kian, Eve, Sam, Lottie, Libby, Lucy and Nell.

Together, they explore the realities of the current funding landscape, how youth voice can drive decision-making, and the powerful impact of creative projects made possible through support.

It’s honest, hopeful and full of stories showing what happens when young people are trusted, resourced and heard.

In Episode 5 of Where’s the F-in Creativity?, Mark and Sarah catch up with graduate theatre company Blank Slate, a fresh new company stepping boldly into the creative sector.

Together, they dive into how creativity shapes theirlives, what it means to turn creativity into a career, and how to nurture imagination in the midst of chaos. It’s a lively, laughter-filled conversation featuring some spontaneous beatboxing, wild impressions, and plenty of insight from a new generation of theatre-makers finding their voice. An inspiring listen for anyone starting their own creative journey or just trying to keeptheir creative spark alive.

https://www.instagram.com/blankslate_theatrecompany/

In Episode 4 of Where’s the F-in Creativity?, Mark and Sarah catch up with Niall to talk all things drag, creativity and self-expression. Niall shares how creativity has shaped his life, from his early days performing with Highly Sprung’s youth group, Sprung Youth, to unforgettable moments on RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 7. Together, they chat about drag as a powerful art form, a tool for change, and a space for joy and authenticity. It’s a warm, funny and inspiring conversation that celebrates the freedom creativity brings, and the confidence to be unapologetically yourself.

From tiny first steps on stage being a penguin, to stealing the spotlight as a violin-playing drag artist, Niall’s journey is one full of creativity and joy.