We are delighted to announce our new season creative programme for April through to December 2026 - full of new theatre, events, festivals and exhibitions - plus details of our new Christmas show Hansel & Gretel - written by Lewis Hetherington. All on sale now and ready to book.

2026 is a special year for Platform as we celebrate our twentieth birthday, having first opened to the public in 2006. 

We are marking our birthday year with 26 creative projects and live events: Made in Easterhouse 20:26.

Each Made in Easterhouse. Each presents opportunities for you to join us and the artists we host to meet, have fun and make artworks and memories together.

Some of these 26 projects can be found here on the website (see our What's On page)  - with more being added throughout the course of the year.

Read the digital version of the What's On guide here or pick up a hard copy in the venue.

The creative programme runs alongside our Taking Part programme which is packed with lots of classes and workshops for all ages, and offered on a Pay-What-You-Like basis. Spaces available to book now.

Our next Taking Part block starts back on Monday 20 April until Saturday 27 June with a varied line up of classes and workshops on offer. Spaces available to book now!

This runs alongside our new creative programme, which has been announced for April to December. See the full programme in our What's On Guide here or pick up a copy when next in Platform.

Sessions are relaxed and welcoming and are led by artists / professional tutors. No previous experience is required and taster sessions are also available if you wish to try a class first (see class listings for details).

Classes are offered on a Pay-What-You-Like basis, where you decide what you'd like to donate. As a guide, we recommend a payment of £5 per class. You can pay for a full block up front or pay weekly - both online or at the class itself in cash (via our donations box) or by card.  

MUSIC 

Platform Singers (16 years+) | Fridays | 2.30pm - 4pm

Run by opera singer and choir leader Rachel Hynes, Platform Singers is a relaxed, welcoming group and no singing experience is needed. We start off each session with a chat & cuppa at 2.30pm before moving onto singing. If you just want to sing then join us at 3pm. As well as being social and fun, there are lots of health benefits to singing - you can find out more details here.

Guitar & Fiddle Lessons (adults & children age 8yrs+)  | Tuesdays  | from 5pm

Our Guitar and Fiddle lessons are held as group sessions and are led by professional musicians, who bring lots of experience, talent and expertise to each class. Super friendly, they are open to all ages from 5yrs+ and all levels of experience. More details for Guitar lessons here and details for Fiddle here.

Drum Lessons | (adults & children age 8yrs+) | Mondays & Thursdays  | from 5pm

One-to-one sessions led by experienced tutors -  super welcoming and open to everyone age 8yrs and over, at any level of experience. More details here.

VISUAL ART

Clack and Yak Knitting Group (16yrs+) | Mondays  |  11am - 1pm

Platform’s  Clack and Yak knitting group meet in the Platform Cafe  for a chat and a cuppa whilst knitting, sewing or crocheting. Friendly and informal, beginners, improvers or seasoned knitters alike are all welcome. Wool, needles and patterns provided. More information here.

Nu Gen Art + Design (11yrs +) | Tuesdays |  5pm - 6.30pm

Nu Gen is a fun, weekly art group that is artist led and challenges teenagers to make artwork that represents their interests, exploring identity and what it is to be an artist. If you like drawing, painting or sculpture, are studying art at school or fancy trying something new - then Nu Gen is for you! Full details here.

Painting Club (16yrs+) | 1pm - 2:30pm

Artist led skills development session with a focus on watercolour painting. Aimed at beginners and those wanting to get creative. More details here. 

Art Factory (16yrs+) | Tuesdays  | 2.45pm - 4pm

A relaxed, informal space for adults to get creative and inspired with activities and advice on various art techniques. A great way to get involved in a whole host of different types of art activities. More details here.

Saturday Art Club (5 - 11yrs) | Saturdays | 11am - 12pm & 1pm - 2pm

An informal art class aimed at primary school age children, offering a chance to be playful with materials and create artworks to take home. Artist led and a fun way to spend a Saturday! There are two sessions running due to demand for spaces. More info here.

MULTI-ARTFORM

Play Cafe (0-5yrs) | Saturdays | 11.15am - 12pm

Bring your wee ones along and enjoy some creative, sensory activities. Each week is different -  join us for theatre, dance, music and art and craft activities for babies and toddlers, all led by Platform’s associate artists. It doesn’t matter if you are a parent, grandparent, carer, auntie or uncle - everyone is welcome. Healthy drinks and snacks provided.  More details here.

PERFORMANCE

Monday Night Drama (8 – 16 yrs) | Mondays  | 5.30pm - 7pm

Monday Night Drama is a fun, weekly drama workshop for those age 8 -16 years old who are interested in performance, fun and creativity! The workshops are artist led and are designed to develop skills and confidence and meet new people. The class is split into 2 groups - 8-11yrs and 12-16yrs. More details here.

Platform Dance (8 - 16 yrs) | Thursdays | from 5pm

Platform Dance is a fun, weekly and informal workshop for children and young people interested in exploring dance. The workshops are designed to give young people a space to explore their creativity and meet new people. More details here.

Celebrating Four Corners of the Studio, the current exhibition at Platform, we are delighted to host four artists from Project Ability at our MAKE DO event on Saturday 28 March, who will be carrying out free ‘on the spot’ portraits. 

Jonathan McKinstry, Cameron Morgan, Lindsay Oliphant and John McNaught will create unique handmade portraits for people visiting the exhibition and coming along to the event. 

A lovely way to take home a keepsake/memento of you and your family /pals! 

Free and drop in between 12noon - 2pm.

Read more about the Make Do event here.
 

Join us at Platform over the Easter school holiday for a packed programme of free food and free creative activities! 

Running weekdays from Tuesday 7 to Friday 17 April 2026, 10am - 2.30pm, children and families can come along to the Platform Café Bar and enjoy a free breakfast & lunch. 

The meals are drop in - no need to book - and served on a first come, first served basis and runs weekdays only. Parents/carers to stay with children. 

Breakfast is served between 10am - 11.30am and lunch between 12pm - 2pm.

Free activities schedule:

W/C TUESDAY 7 APRIL -  FRIDAY 10 APRIL

10AM - 10.30AM

Tue 7→ Fitness with Easterhouse Sports Centre

Wed 8 →Smoothie Bar with Ford McGill, Chartwells & Glasgow Life Sports taster

Thu 9 → Table top games + colouring in

Fri 10 → Table top games + colouring in

+

11AM – 12.30PM:

Tue 7→ Sculpture workshop with Alys Owen 

Wed 8 → Movie screening: Zootropolis

Thu 9 → Workshop: A Home for Hamish 

Fri 10 → A Home for Hamish performance and a 12.30pm performance of ELECTION 

_______________________________________________

W/C  MONDAY 13 APRIL - FRIDAY 17 APRIL

10AM – 10.30AM:

Mon 13 → Fitness with Easterhouse Sports Centre

Tue 14 → Smoothie Bar with Ford McGill, Chartwells

Wed 15 → Glasgow Life Sport Taster

Thu 16→ Easterhouse Sports Centre tasters

Fri 17 →Traitors Workshop

+

11AM – 12.30PM

Mon 13 → Workshop with Florence & Hope

Tue 14 → Film Screening: Zootropolis 2 

Wed 15 → Movie Screening: Lilo and Stitch

Thu 16→ Music session with Hannah Lee

Fri 17 → Sculpture with Alys Owen

Activities are either drop in or sign up on the day and are subject to change/availability. 

As well as Platform activities there is lots of other activity going on at The Bridge - including Lego, books and games in the library.

Thank you to Glasgow City Council Children’s Holiday Food and Activity Programme for funding.

For further details or if you have any questions, please contact info@platform-online.co.uk

Do you remember or were you involved with the Easterhouse Arts Project - and/or Easterhouse Camera Club?

These two projects took place in Easterhouse and surrounding areas from the late 1960s through to the early 1990s.  

Documenting a snapshot of this period of time, archival material has been shared by artist Alan Dunn and his family - which are on display in Platform vitrines in The Bridge library. These are free to view - pop in during opening times for a look.

Alan, who is now based in Liverpool, grew up in the East End of Glasgow and went on to study at Glasgow School of Art. 

While studying community art, he worked on various projects with Easterhouse Arts Project from around 1987 to the early 1990s, including setting up and raising funds for the Rogerfield Arts Project.  

Alan's dad, Ian Dunn, was a member of Easterhouse Camera Club during the late 1980s.

Over the last year, MAKE DO has been running at Platform on various Saturdays, offering a free drop in event with a focus on local resources, exchanging skills, creating and reusing.

Part of the Creative Climates Futures Easterhouse Project and curated by artist Rebecca Fraser, each month sees a range of activities set up in the the Platform Cafe Bar, Studio Theatre and library areas.

Free hot rolls and drinks are served and it's an event which is ideal for all ages - bring your Granny, your toddler, your pal - or even just head along on your own for a relaxed and welcoming afternoon.

Free activities so far have included wreath making, watercolour painting, collaging, Gaelic corner, sewing skills, hand massages, knitting tasters, BSL and Makaton tasters, Make Do and Grow pocket money stall and toy library, arts and crafts, clothes swap rail, creative writing, outdoor play, flower crown making, Lego building and lots more!

The next MAKE DO is Saturday 28 February, 12noon - 2pm. Free and drop in - no need to book in. More details here.

Suitable for all ages - everyone is welcome. 

Some feedback on previous events…

"For my kids it is really nice coming here because of all the creative activities, as a way to keep them away from tablets and all the screens you know? My daughter loved making friendship bracelets while my son likes any outdoor activity"

“As a family of 5 it's hard to find activities for all of us, and not expensive ones. It's nice that here there's something for everyone, and enjoying free rolls makes it even better! My kids prefer doing practical stuff, my daughter likes crafts like making the friendship bracelets, while my 4 year old son loves outdoor activities”

Flower image: Ashleigh Smith

Alan Dimmick's 'Daytripping' exhibition here at Platform runs until Saturday 24 January and will be hosting a closing event talk with Alan in the afternoon of the 24th. Free and drop in from 2pm - watch this space for more details! There is also a Make Do event on at Platform on the same day - pop in to enjoy free stalls and activities. Read more here.

If you've not managed to catch the exhibition pop in before if finishes and enjoy the collection of evocative photographs documenting the joy of day trips, celebrating people and place. 

During his visits to Platform over the exhibition run, Alan has been documenting some events and general happenings within the building in his signature style. We share some of Alan's photographs here - enjoy!

As our team finish up for the Christmas break we wanted to say a huge thank you to audiences, artists, partners, funders, peers and friends for the continued support over the past 12 months. It is greatly appreciated. The Platform office will close on Christmas Eve and reopen at 10am on Thursday 8 January 2026.

Artistic Director Matt Addicott shares a look back at the past year…

"The past year has had many highlights here at Platform. Welcoming thousands to the venue for our summer festival; unveiling an amazing new stained-glass window; hosting some of Alan Dimmick’s beautiful photographic works; running monthly Make Do events; working in partnership with FUSE to produce the first Glasgow East ComiCon; supporting Play Cafés at Platform and Parkhead and staging international performances as part of the Take Me Somewhere programme was a privilege and a joy.

By the time the curtain comes down on the final performance of A Christmas Carol, over 7,000 people will have been to see the show and your continued support is much appreciated. Huge thanks and congratulations to everyone involved from the stage management team to the ensemble of performers from Glasgow Kelvin College - everyone has worked hard to make the show a success and their work is much appreciated.

Engagement with our programme of weekly music, performance and visual art classes and workshops continues to rise and places for the next block running from January to March are available to book here. Our new creative programme, running until April, has also launched and is on sale now - details can be found here.

Thank you to everyone that has joined us for a workshop, attended a live performance or visited us at some stage this year – notable mention to all those parents, carers and friends that have helped transport audience members and group participants too!

Huge thanks to the whole staff team here as well as all the artists, technicians, volunteers, facilitators, stewards, café bar workers and other freelance and sessional staff that have contributed to our work in 2025.

At the end of the year we also remember those who we have lost along the way and this year sadly there were many that have made significant contributions to the arts centre and the communities we serve. From Mags and Jean, whose devotion to knitting, chatting and weekly workshops at Platform leave a deep and lasting impact on all those that met them, to Gerry with whom we worked closely with to plan and deliver projects like the Blairtummock Park Activity Trail and ComiCon. Each cared deeply for the area and their communities and leave the rest of us to continue that care and advocacy – inspired by the trails they blazed.

Looking ahead, 2026 will see us mark twenty years since first opening the doors here at The Bridge. From birthday parties, special commissions, new performances, archives, websites and exhibitions we have lots planned and look forward to celebrating with you.

In the meantime, on behalf of everyone at Platform, we wish you a very merry festive season and look forward to seeing you here next year!"

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Matt  

Over the past few months, Platform has been working with theatre-maker Hazel Darwin-Clements and a group of actors to present a series of quickfire, 5-minute play-readings to local schools and organisations – with an aim to spark follow on conversation about climate, community, and collective responses to change. 

The project is part of Climate Change Theatre Action, an organsiation which uses storytelling and live performance to foster dialogue about the global climate crisis, creating an empowering vision of the future, and inspiring people to take action.

Hazel and the actors visited Oakwood Primary School, St Benedict’s Primary School, Agnew Lane community garden, The Glenburn Centre (community centre)  and a group of students from Glasgow Kelvin College.

The readings were followed by a relaxed discussion with Hazel where actions and aims were shared by each group. Ideas focused around spending more time in their community garden, using Amazon less, consuming less, cycling more and researching their digital footprints. 

Matt Addicott, Artistic Director at Platform said: “It was a really positive project and the play readings really helped unpack the themes and content of each of the selected scripts to stimulate conversation and debate with the groups.

"The conversations I overhead whilst travelling around and watching the readings were inspiring with the plays kick-starting often quite deep reflection and thought. 

“The primary schools had prepared their own readings and these were fantastic – it was great to hear what they found of interest and important in the texts”.

This project was made possible by the work that Project Co-ordinator Jordan at  The Pavillion in Easterhouse have been doing over the last 18 months.

Read more about Climate Change Theatre Action here.

We are delighted to announce our new season creative programme for January through to mid April. On sale and ready to book!

This runs alongside our Taking Part programme which is packed with lots of classes and workshops for all ages, and offered on a Pay-What-You-Like basis. 

Read the digital version of the What's On Guide here or pick up a hard copy in the venue. 

FULL HOUSE FRIDAY BINGO runs every Friday afternoon from 12noon - 2pm with a few rounds of bingo, soup and cuppa and weekly entertainment.  For 18yrs+, tickets £5.

And we are pleased to welcome back a series of MAKE DO events - running Sat 24 Jan, Sat 28 Feb and Sat 28 March from 12noon - 2pm. Curated by artist Rebecca Fraser, it's free and drop in and suitable for all ages - come along and take part in free activities, shop at stalls and enjoy free refreshments including free drinks and hot rolls served throughout. Part of the Creative Climates Futures Easterhouse Project 

The DAYTRIPPING exhibition by Alan Dimmick runs until Saturday 24 January - enjoy a collection of evocative photographs documenting the joy of day trips, celebrating people and place.

In February we welcome Frozen Light with ANCIENT OAK OF BALDOR. A multi-sensory experience for audiences with profound and multiple learning disabilities and their companions, offering the chance to gather and experience the collective power of shared stories. Thu 26 & Fri 27 Feb  at 11am & 1.30pm. Recommended age 13yrs+.

ONE OF TWO by Jack Hunter comes to Platform on Tue 17 March at 7pm. Aimed at age 12yrs+. Presented by Independent Arts Projects, ONE OF TWO is a ‘remarkably ordinary’, heartfelt, hilarious solo show about twins with cerebral palsy navigating childhood, celebrating disability, difference, and resilience.

Platform & Jon Ritchie and That Swing Sensation present two spring time BIG BAND AFTERNOON TEA DANCES on Wed 1 & Thu 2 April at 1pm. A tea dance extravaganza indeed -  enjoy live music, tea, sandwiches, cakes, vocalists and dancers! Suitable for all ages. 

April 10th at 2pm sees the arrival of A HOME FOR HAMISH presented by Just Us - a colourful, immersive show blending dance, storytelling and British Sign Language. Climb mountains, dance with jellyfish and escape dragons - all in one magical adventure! Recommended age 4-7yrs.

Our next Taking Part block starts back from Monday 19 January until Saturday 28 March 2026 with a varied line up of classes and workshops on offer - as well as a brand new group Easterhouse Living Archive Group with Red Flag Players.

This runs alongside our  new creative programme, which has been announced for January through to April. See the full programme in our What's On Guide here or pick up a copy when next in Platform.

Sessions are relaxed and welcoming and are led by artists / professional tutors. No previous experience is required and taster sessions are also available if you wish to try a class first (see class listings for details).

Classes are offered on a Pay-What-You-Like basis, where you decide what you'd like to donate. As a guide, we recommend a payment of £5 per class. You can pay for a full block up front or pay weekly - both online or at the class itself in cash (via our donations box) or by card.  

MUSIC 

Platform Singers (16 years+) | Fridays | 2.30pm - 4pm

Run by opera singer and choir leader Rachel Hynes, Platform Singers is a relaxed, welcoming group and no singing experience is needed. We start off each session with a chat & cuppa at 2.30pm before moving onto singing. If you just want to sing then join us at 3pm. As well as being social and fun, there are lots of health benefits to singing - you can find out more details here.

Guitar & Fiddle Lessons (adults & children age 8yrs+)  | Tuesdays  | from 5pm

Our Guitar and Fiddle lessons are held as group sessions and are led by professional musicians, who bring lots of experience, talent and expertise to each class. Super friendly, they are open to all ages from 5yrs+ and all levels of experience. More details for Guitar lessons here and details for Fiddle here.

Drum Lessons | (adults & children age 8yrs+) | Mondays & Thursdays  | from 5pm

One-to-one sessions led by experienced tutors -  super welcoming and open to everyone age 8yrs and over, at any level of experience. More details here.

VISUAL ART

Clack and Yak Knitting Group (16yrs+) | Mondays  |  11am - 1pm

Platform’s  Clack and Yak knitting group meet in the Platform Cafe  for a chat and a cuppa whilst knitting, sewing or crocheting. Friendly and informal, beginners, improvers or seasoned knitters alike are all welcome. Wool, needles and patterns provided. More information here.

Nu Gen Art + Design (11yrs +) | Tuesdays |  5pm - 6.30pm

Nu Gen is a fun, weekly art group that is artist led and challenges teenagers to make artwork that represents their interests, exploring identity and what it is to be an artist. If you like drawing, painting or sculpture, are studying art at school or fancy trying something new - then Nu Gen is for you! Full details here.

Painting Club (16yrs+) | 1pm - 2:30pm

Artist led skills development session with a focus on watercolour painting. Aimed at beginners and those wanting to get creative. More details here. 

Art Factory (16yrs+) | Tuesdays  | 2.45pm - 4pm

A relaxed, informal space for adults to get creative and inspired with activities and advice on various art techniques. A great way to get involved in a whole host of different types of art activities. More details here.

Saturday Art Club (5 - 11yrs) | Saturdays | 11am - 12pm & 1pm - 2pm

An informal art class aimed at primary school age children, offering a chance to be playful with materials and create artworks to take home. Artist led and a fun way to spend a Saturday! There are two sessions running due to demand for spaces. More info here.

MULTI-ARTFORM

Play Cafe (0-5yrs) | Saturdays | 11.15am - 12pm

Bring your wee ones along and enjoy some creative, sensory activities. Each week is different -  join us for theatre, dance, music and art and craft activities for babies and toddlers, all led by Platform’s associate artists. It doesn’t matter if you are a parent, grandparent, carer, auntie or uncle - everyone is welcome. Healthy drinks and snacks provided.  More details here.

Easterhouse Living Archive Group with Red Flag Players | Adults | Thursdays |6pm - 8pm

Are you interested in the local history of Easterhouse and surrounding areas? Have stories to share? We are looking for people to join the group, explore local histories and create a new performance featuring songs, poems and archive film. More details here.

PERFORMANCE

Monday Night Drama (8 – 16 yrs) | Mondays  | 5.30pm - 7pm

Monday Night Drama is a fun, weekly drama workshop for those age 8 -16 years old who are interested in performance, fun and creativity! The workshops are artist led and are designed to develop skills and confidence and meet new people. The class is split into 2 groups - 8-11yrs and 12-16yrs. More details here.

Platform Dance (8 - 16 yrs) | Thursdays | from 5pm

Platform Dance is a fun, weekly and informal workshop for children and young people interested in exploring dance. The workshops are designed to give young people a space to explore their creativity and meet new people. More details here. 

There has been lots of love for Tiny Shiny Tim the tortoise from audiences of this year's Platform Christmas show A Christmas Carol, so much so that we commissioned artist Alice Dansey-Wright to create some free activity worksheets that can be printed off at home and completed! 

As well as Tiny Tim activities, there are some Christmas jumper and Carol's Clothes worksheets too. Cut out, colour in and get crafty this Christmas!

Why not send in a pic of your creations when you have completed the sheets? Email pics along with your name to info@platform-online.co.uk

Click to download…

Carols Clothes 

Tiny Tim

Lettuce 

Christmas jumper

A Christmas Carol runs until Christmas Eve with tickets from £6. More info/book here. 

Platform and Starcatchers are celebrating their 20th anniversaries in 2026!

As part of a series of celebrations (watch this space!), Platform and Starcatchers are commissioning an Early Years Artist/s to develop a new and original event for early years audiences that will be shared as part of Made in Easterhouse 20:26 - a programme of work featuring 26 creative projects marking our 20th anniversary.

If you are an artist interested in working with early years audiences, click here for more information / to apply. Deadline for applications is Friday January 9 2026.

We are especially keen to engage an artist from a background typically underrepresented in early years arts. This commission is open to artists from marginalised backgrounds, specifically global majority artists, disabled artists, d/Deaf artists and/or artists from working-class backgrounds.

Image: Brian Hartley

 

LUX Scotland and Platform are delighted to be hosting a three-day residential event at Cove Park, funded by YouthLink Scotland and led by Ashanti Harris, supporting young artists. 

In 2020-21, LUX Scotland and Platform partnered on a project as part of Now & Next to commission 13 young people to make short moving image works with BBC Arts and Screen Scotland. Building on the success of Now & Next, this residency invites young artists with an interest in moving image to come together for a weekend of creative exploration, relaxation and connection. These artists are  Anas Haile, Bradley Paterson, Caitlin Rae, Lloyd Darko, and Reese Leitch.

Multi-disciplinary artist Ashanti Harris was a mentor on Now & Next and returns to lead this special residential event, conceived in dialogue with Lloyd Darko and Reese Leitch, who both took part in Now & Next. Set against the backdrop of Cove Park, away from the distractions of city life, the programme offers an opportunity to immerse the artists in new ideas, share experiences, and envision sustainable practice for the future. 

The three-day event will include workshops led by Ashanti, group discussions, readings, film screenings, and dedicated time to present past work and develop future projects. Ashanti Harris is a transdisciplinary artist, researcher and lecturer based in Glasgow. 

Working between dance, performance, facilitation, sound, installation and writing, Ashanti’s work disrupts dominant historical narratives and reimagines them from a Caribbean diasporic perspective. Alongside her creative practice, Ashanti is co-founder of Project X – a community interest company platforming dance of the African and Caribbean diaspora in Scotland; and a founding member of Glasgow Open Dance School (G.O.D.S) - facilitating experimental movement workshops and research.

Cove Park is an international residency based on an outstanding 50-acre rural site in Argyll on Scotland’s west coast. Their programme of residencies, commissions, and collaborative projects respond to and promote the diversity of contemporary artistic practice. Cove Park support artists, creative practitioners, and researchers to develop and produce ambitious, innovative, and ground-breaking new work for audiences and participants across Scotland and beyond.

Special thanks to Lloyd Darko and Reese Leitch for their invaluable input in shaping this residency. 

This programme is supported by YouthLink Scotland.

__________________________________________________________________________

IMAGES:

1. Cove Park's Jacobs Building in Spring (photography, Alan Dimmick).
2. Ashanti Harris, 'BLACK GOLD' (2023). Courtesy of the artist.

3 Image: Participants outside Cove Park’s Jacobs Building, November 2025.

Image descriptions:

1. A large wooden building peers out above bright green ferns against a blue sky.
2. A still shows to hand fanned upwards against a dark green natural background. White text reads: "And now I'm thinking about oil."

3.8 people stand in a row together outside a modern building in a rural Scottish setting, they all smile at the camera. 

Announcing the lead cast of A Christmas Carol, our 2025 Christmas show, we are excited to welcome Sarah McCardie as Carol Scrooge, Adam Buksh as Bob Cratchitt, Ava Hickey as Freddy Scrooge and Scott Miller as The Christmas Ghost,

The cast is supported by 3rd year BA Theatre Industry and Practice students - a course which runs in collaboration with Glasgow Kelvin College and University of Highlands and Islands. The students form the ensemble cast which play a range of parts including roles in Carol's Clothes Shop, night-time spirits and family and friends of Carol Scrooge, with some students supporting the production and stage management team.

Read on for more about the lead cast and a sneaky insight from Lewis Hetherington, writer of the show, on the characters…

Sarah McCardie who plays Carol Scrooge has a wealth of theatre, TV, radio and film credits covering everything from A Play, a Pie and a Pint to River City, Tinsel Town and Fast Romance to a long list of pantomime roles across the UK, Sarah is a well known face. Sarah also works as a Director and Editorial Producer. We are thrilled to have her join us as the mean but highly entertaining Ms Scrooge! Lewis says Carol is a real horror but very enjoyable to watch her behave so badly. She's a fashion designer and thinks her life as a greedy rich boss is perfect - until the ghost comes to visit…

The Ghost is very fun, very silly and only a little bit spooky - when it's time to teach Carol a lesson for being so mean. He's a friendly chap and loves talking to the audience. It's his job to show Carol the error of her ways, and he'll do anything to make her change her ways! Scott Miller plays this role and with a string of theatre roles under his belt - The Wife of Willesden (Kiln Theatre), The Wife of Willesden NYC Transfer (B.A.M Theatre NEw York), The Strange Case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde (National Theatre Scotland/Sky Arts), War Horse (National Theatre) - and film credits including The Outrun (Brock Media/Protagonist Pictures), The Road Dance (Sheridan Road Films) and Shutterbug (BBC Films), to name just few, we're thrilled to welcome him to the Platform stage.

Adam Buksh who plays Bob Cratchitt is a Glasgow based actor, who has worked all around the UK for the last 10 years. He’s been involved in TV, theatre, pantomime, voice-over, motion capture for the Bannockburn Exhibition and is currently a continuity announcer for STV. Some of his credits include Burning Bright (PPP), The Stane (BBC Sounds), Scot Squad (BBC), Cinderella (Ayr Gaiety), Macbeth (Proteus Theatre), One Mississippi (Dijli). Lewis says Bob Cratchitt is a dreamer who likes to make people laugh and smile, but he's flat broke and struggling to hold it all together.…

The brilliant Ava Hickey joins the cast as Freddy Scrooge - Carol Scrooge's niece, who has always looked up to her Aunty Carol, though is beginning to suspect her Aunty is maybe pretty mean, and actually quite unhappy underneath it all. A Royal Conservatoire Scotland graduate, Ava's credits span TV and theatre, including The Kelton Hill Fair (WonderFools), The Bombing of Pan Am 103 (BBC/Neftlix), Big Wheel (Showmen’s Theatre), Aladdin, Oh Yes We Are! (Perth Theatre) and Tiger Is Out (National Theatre of Scotland). Ava is also a co-founder of The Showmen’s Theatre Company.

Glasgow Kelvin College student Lauren Kelly  (22) from Rutherglen, who is part of the ensemble cast, said: “I’m so excited to be working with a professional cast and production team - and learning as much as I can from them. It’s a great opportunity and it’s nice to be helping create some festive fun for audiences!”

Read more about the show from writer Lewis Hetherington.

Directed by Rosalind Sydney.

A Christmas Carol runs from Tue 2 – Wed 24 December 2025. Tickets on from £6 and on sale here.

Relaxed performances available. Group bookings available - book up to 100 tickets on the Platform website or for larger bookings, please email tickets@platform-online.co.uk

Doctor Who star Peter Capaldi donated a signed script as a raffle prize - won by local lad Liam Lennox -  and there were a range of stalls selling everything from comics, graphic novels and stickers to keychains, potion making, crystals, artwork, jewellery and collectables!  Stalls included Handmade by Kathryn, Craftopia creative, Phoenix Crystals, Slyghtly Art, Scunnered Ink Limited, Scottish Cartoon Studio, Fuse, Beats of War and Rough Cut Comics.

As well as a thank you to Peter Capaldi for the script donation, thanks for other donations go to Claire Grogan, Fuse and Still Game Merch bundle from Scunnered In Limited.

There was lots to browse with 'Artists Alley' showcasing the work of national comic creators/illustrators and for more interactive activities, there was face painting, caricatures from Scottish Cartoon Studio, glitter tattoos and Dungeons and Dragons role play/games taking place throughout the day.

Displays and workshops by Who Ray Dalek Sci Fi Hire and Shady Scarecrow were a hit, alongside a comic themed Saturday Art Club, where kids had a chance to make cosutmes and masks.

Ghostbusters, Batman and Iron Man made an appearance along with various other cosplayers from the comic universe - as well as Dr Who Daleks and a Ghostbusters car, which was parked up in The Bridge Car Park., There was even a visit from Finnie - the Commonwealth 2026 mascot!

To round of the event there was  a screening the Fantastic Four: Next Steps, shown in the Platform auditorium.

Funding also supported, in the lead up to the event, engagement with groups, with a range of creative workshops which included cape making and the creation of an Easterhouse Comic at the October 2025 school holiday food programme.

Platform artists, Pearl and Celie, visited groups to make masks and capes and worked with older kids made a comic zine - these groups included Fuse Shettleston, Pavillion and Glasgow Kelvin College Family Hub.

The event was supported by Glasgow Area Committee from whom Fuse received funding from.

Images of Comicon event: Peter Sandground

We caught up with playwright Lewis Hetherington, writer of our Christmas show A Christmas Carol, which starts at Platform on Tue 2 December and runs until Wed 24 December 2025. Tickets on sale now - book here!

A heartwarming twist on a classic tale, we hear some more from Lewis about the show and what to expect….

This is your 10^th Christmas show for Platform – double digits! How does that feel?

I am so happy to be doing my 10th Christmas show for Platform. I love working at the venue so much, the community, the chat and the creativity is like nothing else.  The ten shows have been Goldilocks, Red Riding Hood, Three Little Pigs, Puss In Boots, Rapunzel, Mother Goose (fae Easterhoose), Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Rumpelstiltskin and now A Christmas Carol.

I'm so glad that I keep getting welcomed back - I have learnt so much about how to write a good story from Platform and their audience, the feedback and responses have helped me to continue to hone what I'm doing. 

What made you choose A Christmas Carol for this year’s show? 

I think it feels really relevant to this moment, when the world feels so hard, and we sometimes feel so disconnected to others. Scrooge is a character who has become so mean and cruel, as a way to cope with the world. But as the story shows, even a character who has been really horrible can find a way back to being kind and loving again.

What can audiences expect?

Lots of fun! It's been a blast writing this, making the story feel really modern and of the moment. It's got all the things you love about the story, but lots of surprises along the way. It's a story that will keep you gripped and entertained!

Tell us a little more about the characters…

Carol Scrooge is a real horror but very enjoyable to watch her behave so badly. She's a fashion designer and thinks her life as a greedy rich boss is perfect... until the ghost comes to visit. 

The Ghost is very fun, very silly and only a little bit spooky - when it's time to teach Carol a lesson for being so mean. He's a friendly chap and loves talking to the audience. It's his job to show Carol the error of her ways, and he'll do anything to make her change her ways.

Bob Cratchett is a dreamer who likes to make people laugh and smile, but he's flat broke and struggling to hold it all together.…

Freddy is Scrooge's niece, and she has always looked up to her Aunty Carol Scrooge, though is beginning to suspect her Aunty is maybe pretty mean, and actually quite unhappy underneath it all.

Any twists and turns to look out for - and any sneaky info on the music?

It was brilliant to write a female Scrooge! There are some very fun creature characters we meetalong the way - including a very important Tortoise! The show is full of brilliant party classics from the 80's and 90's that you will know and love. And some Christmas bangers of course.

Why should people come and see it?

Because nothing makes you feel joyful like a Christmas show! When you're in a room full of people from 4 to 104 and everyone is gasping and laughing and singing along together, it reminds you of what life's all about. Being with people and hearing stories that make you think about the world. 

____________________________________________

Tue 2 – Wed 24 December 2025. Day and evening performances - tickets from £6. Group bookings available. Café Bar open pre show. 

Book via Box Office (0141 276 9661), in person at the Platform Box Office or on our website (you can book up to 100 tickets online) - book here.

Platform's art clubs have been busy this week with a creative spotlight on Halloween…

The adult art group Art Factory focused on a range of printing designs and the Painting Club group, also for adults, session centered around drawing and watercolour painting. 

Nu Gen art club for teenagers, painted pumpkins with an array of fun and spooky designs - on display in the Platform Cafe Bar this week for those who'd like a proper look.

Amazing work all round!

All groups are led by artist Pearl Kinnear.

Interested in taking part in a Platform art group? Find out more about all our groups here.

We are looking for enthusiastic individuals to join our pool of casual/sessional staff and support our friendly Café Bar and Front of House teams here at Platform, The Bridge.

The roles will help with the smooth running of all of Platform events and provide excellent customer service as part of the staff team of Platform. 

Stewards will ensure that public audiences can safely and successfully engage with the performances, gigs, exhibitions and workshops that take place in the venue throughout the year. Successful applicants will work across both Front of House and Café Bar departments – preparing spaces for public audiences, supporting the communities we serve to safely engage with arts and cultural activities and selling refreshments to them from the café bar as required.

RATE OF PAY & HOURS

Platform offers shifts at the Glasgow Living Wage rate which is currently £12.60 per hour. If your application to join our casual pool is successful you we will contact you if and when work becomes available. Shifts are offered on a first come, first serve basis and we cannot guarantee a set number of hours each month.

HOW TO APPLY

Closing date for applications is Friday 31 October at 5pm.

You can find the full job description HERE. If you have any issues opening the job description file please email us at hr@platform-online.co.uk and we will email you the file.

To apply please email hr@platform-online.co.uk outlining your interest in the role, any experience you may have and with a copy of your CV. 

In addition to contacting us by email you can get in touch by phone 0141 276 9661 (please leave a message if there is no response). 

ABOUT PLATFORM

Platform is run by Glasgow East Arts Company (GEAC). We are a strategic partner at The Bridge which launched in 2006 as an aspirational new facility for arts, leisure and learning comprising Glasgow Kelvin College, Glasgow Life's swimming pool and library.

We work with a range of partners, funders, local organisations and communities groups to deliver our cross arts programme both within our building and across the north east of Glasgow and beyond. 

Platform is financially supported by Creative Scotland and Glasgow City Council alongside many other partners from housing associations and community health partnerships to The Robertson Trust and Big Lottery. 

We are looking for a Cafe Bar Assistant to join our team at here at Platform arts centre at The Bridge in Easterhouse.

Supported by our friendly Cafe Bar team, the role will assist with the planning and delivery of daily service at the Platform Café Bar and for events held within The Bridge. This includes providing excellent customer service and care, contributing to effective stock management, cash handling processes and supporting excellent food hygiene standards when preparing and serving fresh food and drinks. 

No experience is necessary and full training will be given, however a friendly, can-do attitude towards learning and working as a team is welcomed. Additional training such as Barista training, Food Hygiene and First Aid will be discussed with successful candidate.

Due to funding supporting this role, there is eligibility criteria for applicants. To apply you must be:

- Aged 16–67

-Glasgow City Council resident

-Unemployed and not in education

- Facing barriers to employment

- Right to work in the UK

RATE OF PAY & HOURS

This is a fixed-term work placement at 25 hours a week for 22 weeks, to be agreed as 5 hour shifts over 5 days - our operating week is Mon – Sat. Rate of pay is £12.60 per hour.

HOW TO APPLY

Please see the full job description here and the Microsoft Word application form here. You can also open a PDF of the application form here. To apply please email your application to: hr@platform-online.co.uk If you have any issues opening/downloading the job description and application form, please email hr@platform-online.co.uk and we will email them to you.

If you have any questions please contact us on the above email. In addition to contacting us by email you can get in touch by phone 0141 276 9661 (please leave a message if there is no response).

ABOUT PLATFORM

Platform is run by Glasgow East Arts Company (GEAC). We are a strategic partner at The Bridge which launched in 2006 as an aspirational new facility for arts, leisure and learning comprising Glasgow Kelvin College, Glasgow Life's swimming pool and library.

We work with a range of partners, funders, local organisations and communities groups to deliver our cross arts programme both within our building and across the north east of Glasgow and beyond. 

Platform is financially supported by Creative Scotland and Glasgow City Council alongside many other partners from housing associations and community health partnerships to The Robertson Trust and Big Lottery. 

It was tea dance fever this week at Platform with our two afternoon dances - compered by Jon Ritchie with music from the wonderful That Swing Sensation band - and some brilliant guest vocalists.

Dancers from Boogie Box Jive were on hand once again to lead on the dancing, taking to the floor with guests as well as performing routines with each other - including getting everyone up onto the floor for the slosh!

Our auditorium was transformed into an amazing ballroom featuring beautiful handmade art works and table cloths created by local people, and guests were served teas and coffees, as well as cakes and sandwiches, at their table.

One of the attendees said “I’m impressed with the whole event - on entering the dance hall , it was ‘enchanting’! The band is great. I have seen them many times, and the supporting artists superb.  Looking forward to the next one.”

Thank you to the Murgitroyd Foundation for supporting and funding the tea dances.

Keep an eye on the website for the dances returning in 2026.

Can you spot yourself in any of the photos?

Images: Mark Gibson

Join us at Platform over the October school holiday for a packed programme of free food and creative activities! 

Running weekdays from Monday 13 to Friday 17 October 2025, 10am - 2.30pm, children and families can come along to the Platform Café Bar and enjoy a free breakfast & lunch. The meals are drop in - no need to book - and served on a first come, first served basis and runs weekdays only. Parents/carers to stay with children. 

We’ll have a selection of healthy, filling and delicious food on offer – with vegan and gluten free options. There will be a variety of different foods each week and each day and will include things like cereals, toast, pancakes & hot morning rolls for breakfast along with pizza, baked potatoes, burgers, soup and sandwiches for lunch - as well as fruit, snacks and treats. Food offerings will change daily and are subject to availability. 

Creative activities include a wide range of things to take part in - from film screenings, art workshops, dance sessions, to apple pressing and creative writing - as well as as selection of board games and colouring available each day. Activities are either drop in or sign up on the day and are subject to change/availability. 

As well as Platform activities there is lots of other activity going on at The Bridge - including Lego, books and games in the library. There are also free family swims in the swimming pool - book via the Glasgow Life website.

CREATIVE ACTIVITIES SCHEDULE:

W/C 13 OCTOBER // BREAKFAST SERVED: 10AM - 11.30AM // LUNCH SERVED: 12PM - 2PM

Mon 13 →  10am -10.30am: Make Do craft activities  //  11am – 12.30pm: Make Do craft activities

Tue 14 → 10am - 10.30am: Board games, jigsaws, colouring in  //    11am – 12.30pm: Movie screening: The Incredibles

Wed 15 → 10am - 10.30am: Apple pressing – have fun pressing apples for juice to drink / take home! //  11am – 12.30pm: Movie screening: Matilda

Thu 16  → 10am- 10.30am: Colouring in, jigsaws & games  //  11am – 12.30pm: Street dance workshop

Fri 17 → 10am-10.30am: Creative writing with Sean   //   11am – 12.30pm: Art workshop with Katrine 

Line up is subject to change.

Platform has welcomed thousands of local families over the last few years to the food programme and are proud to offer this service to the local community. 

Thank you to Glasgow City Council Children’s Holiday Food and Activity Programme for funding.

For further details or if you have any questions, please contact info@platform-online.co.uk

As we come to the end of the summer holidays, we reflect upon all of the fun we've had this summer during the Holiday Food & Activities Programme, which has provided free breakfasts, lunches and a varied range of activities to families across Easterhouse. 

Over the course of the 6 week programme, thousands of free meals have been served, and we've hosted all kinds of free activities including:

• 20 creative sessions, including dance, drama, clay, sculpture, drawing, creative writing and music – thanks to all our artists who delivered these: Hannah Lee, Katya Mansell, Alys Owen, Sean McGarvey, Geraldine Heaney, Katrine Turner, Alice Dansey Wright, Bishop May Down,  Eoin McKenzie and Joanna Twaites
• Performances and workshop from Lovebug and Worm and Up and About Theatre
• Sports tasters from the team from Glenburn Centre
• Screen printing tote and t-shirts with Print Clan
• Dance workshops with Three60
• 8 movie screenings in our 210 seater auditorium
• Yoga from Anna
• Wrestling from Iron Girders
• No bake flap jacks from Chartwell 
• Spanish taster from Walter at Growing 21
• Make Do activities
• Colouring in and board games
• Platform summer passport - collect stamps to win prizes!
• National Play Day activities
• Ice Cream van visits 

One regular to the programme said “We've been before and we love it”, whilst another first-time attendee described the Florence and Hope workshop as “brilliant”, saying that her son “loved the workshop! The space was incredible for different age groups and he didn't expect free food which was incredible, especially during the school holidays.”

The success of the programme is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our volunteers, staff, hosts and performers, and to the continuous support of our funders, Glasgow City Council Children's Holiday Food And Activity Programme.

A huge thanks to everyone who has attended this year's Summer Holiday Food & Activities Programme! We hope to see you at Platform soon for any of our upcoming Taking Part sessions or creative programme.

There was a great turnout from thousands of locals to The Bridge Family Festival at the weekend.

The event was packed from start to finish with families coming along to enjoy a varied mix of stalls, entertainment,  children’s rides and art activities - as well as free face painting, free  balloon modelling, free caricatures, free BMX tasters from BMX School Scotland and free Glasgow Life sports tasters. There was live entertainment with music from a variety of artists and the Enchanted Princesses took to the stage to entertain the wee ones.

The ever popular roller disco was full with wee ones trying out skating and enjoying the tunes-  and the free screen printing from Print Clan with tote bags to take home proved a hit!

Pictures are of attendees joining in with various activities and enjoying the sunshine. Thank you to everyone who came!

A huge thank you to our supporters and funders, including The National Lottery Community Fund, Glasgow City Council, Glasgow Life, Glasgow Kelvin College, and to our partner in running the event, Community Events Scotland.

Images: Mark Gibson

Platform in partnership with Glasgow Life Libraries, is delighted to launch Easterhouse Stained Glass Window ‘Whose scheme is it anyway’ - a new legacy artwork exploring working-class history, archives of Greater Easterhouse and Glasgow North East.

Created collaboratively by local residents of Glasgow North East – the ‘Easterhouse Living Archive’ group - and led by artists Keira McLean and Joey Simons, the unique artwork forms part of a series of 10 stained glass windows in place or in progress in libraries across Glasgow and beyond, capturing histories of people and community – with the Easterhouse library window being the latest addition. 

The unveiling of the Easterhouse Stained Glass Window - Whose scheme is it anyway? takes place at Platform, The Bridge, Easterhouse on Thu 24 July at 2pm – 4pm. Free and all welcome – book space via the Platform website. As part of Glasgow 850 celebrations, Glasgow Life will fund a window trail later this year - map, digital and printed - of the 10 windows across the city for members of the public to visit.

A mutual passion for working-class history, archives and sharing stories led to the formation of the Easterhouse Living Archive group, who have spent the last 6 months talking, writing, researching, drawing, moulding, cutting and shaping to create a lasting tribute to the community – all with the professional support and guidance of lead artist Keira and the team at RDW Glass Studios in Dennistoun.

The imagery displayed in the new window includes archival material, original artwork and thought provoking personal experience, bringing together fascinating elements from the history of Easterhouse and Glasgow North East, asking the question: “Whose scheme is it anyway?” 

A new publication, edited by Joey Simons, accompanies the window, drawing together original writing, illustrations and archival discoveries made by the Easterhouse Living Archive group in the course of the project. It is available to browse alongside the window which will form part of a permanent display within the Easterhouse library. Read the publication digitally here or pick one up at Platform.

Keira said: “The Easterhouse Living Archive project has brought together people of all ages and backgrounds to learn the craft of stained glass and celebrate the working class heritage of Glasgow North East. 

“The imagery and stories on display in the window were discovered in archives and have been collectively explored and discussed by the group involved, in a series of creative workshops. These offered a starting point for conversations, leading to the sharing personal memories, experiences - highlighting fascinating elements of the history of Easterhouse and Glasgow North East. 

“These histories of resistance and survival feel more relevant than ever. We are here and we want to live! As Glasgow celebrates its 850th anniversary, we hope the window places the people back at the centre of the city’s story.”

Lynn Freebairn, one of the participants of the project, added: “Although I was new to the community and didn’t know too much about the history of Easterhouse, I was made to feel extremely welcome and it was a lovely way to be introduced to the area, its history and community. 

“I was able to create three pieces of glass that will be displayed in the window, and I feel privileged to have been invited to be part of it”.

The window was designed, created and hand-made by: Angela Rooney, Brenda Gilmour, Fiona Doyle, Frank Doyle, Gillian Grant, Ian Montague, Janice Taggart, Kit Ching McKeown, Lynn Freebairn, Margaret Coletta Mass, Peter McMahon, Robert Haughie and Rosemary Whitley.

Funded by Glasgow City Heritage Trust. Supported by Platform in partnership with Glasgow Life Libraries.

Launch event takes place 2pm – 4pm on Thu 24 July and entry is free although ticketed. Book your space here.

A great turnout in the sunshine and showers at this year’s Alexandra Park Festival Day at the weekend, the first of our two festivals this summer!

Well over three thousand festival goers came along in droves to enjoy everything from stalls and free sports activities, free face painting, free balloon modelling, live music and free art workshops, to rides, inflatables and live wrestling from Iron Girders Gym. 

Thanks to all our supporters and funders, including our partners in running the event, Community Events Scotland.

We are back on Saturday 26 July, 12noon - 4pm, to do it all over again with The Bridge Family Festival, The Bridge, Easterhouse – where there will also be a free roller disco as well as the usual line-up of family friendly activities! Visit here for more details.

We can't wait for another weekend of fun and hope to see you all there!

With thanks to our supporters and funders: Glasgow City Council, Creative Scotland, Glasgow Life and Milnbank Housing Association. 

Images: Mark Gibson

As part of our summer holiday club this year we are so pleased to welcome the wonderful Joanna - our brand new summer club host!

Joanna will be at the club a few days every week and is on hand to help make things even more fun, have a chinwag with and maybe even introduce you to some new pals - so make sure to come over and say hello.

Children can pick up their Platform Passport and collect stamps every time they attend breakfast, lunch or an activity. Once 4 stamps have been collected complete the map and be in with the chance of winning a prize!

Collect stamps from Joanna or from any of the Platform staff at Box Office.

Keep an eye on our social media for daily posts on activities and read more about the summer holidays food and activities programme here (runs weekdays until Fri 8 August).

With thanks to Glasgow City Council Children's Holiday Food and Activities Programme for funding.

We've had an amazing first week of our free Summer Holiday and Food Programme at Platform - and hope everyone who joined us did too!. With free breakfasts, lunches, sports sessions, film screenings, art workshops and an incredible workshop and performance by Florence and Hope, it has been a jam packed week full of fun for everyone who attended. 

The Platform team has enjoyed meeting everyone who has joined us for this week, and to hear their feedback on the programme. After the Florence and Hope workshop, Kerry told us: “It was brilliant! The space was great for different age groups and we having free breakfasts and lunches was incredible - especially during the summer holidays.” 

We also spoke to parents during the free breakfasts and lunches, who said “It's been great for the parents and the kids” and “We've been before and will certainly be coming back”.

Thank you to The Glenburn Centre for joining un

This year we also have an incredible holiday club host, Johanna, visiting us a few days each week to help make things even more fun, so make sure to say to hello when you see her - and pick up a Platform activity passport where you get stamps for taking part in activities!

Join us over the rest of the school holidays for more film screenings - including Despicable Me 4 and Paddington in Peru (a Platform favourite!) as well as lunches, breakfasts, art workshops, music sessions, sports tasters and lots of other things planned. All free and drop in - runs weekdays from 10am - 2.30pm until the 8th of August.

Keep an eye on our social media for daily posts about what is going on…

With thanks to Glasgow City Council Children's Holiday Food and Activities Programme for funding.

On Friday 13 and Friday 20 June, we hosted two Open House events at Platform, as part of the Refugee Festival Scotland. 

These events were designed to welcome newcomers to Platform, and give them the opportunity to learn more about what we offer, have a look around the venue, and take part in some activities. Platform's Full House Bingo group also joined in on the fun as part of their weekly bingo, lunch and entertainment meet up.

Both days were a great success, with wonderful performances from members of Platform taking part music classes - led by tutor Celine - and hands on activities run by Angela from the Royal Horticultural Society and Print Clan. One of the newcomers who came along said 'It's a good chance to try something new and have a look round'.

We loved getting to see some new faces join us and hope to see many of the newcomers at our upcoming events. Watch this space for the July to December creative programme and Taking Part announcement…

We are delighted to announce our new season creative programme for July to December 2025 - all on sale now! This runs alongside our Taking Part programme which is packed with lots of classes and workshops for all ages, and offered on a Pay-What-You-Like basis. 

Read the digital version of the What's On Guide here or pick up a hard copy in the venue. 

Drop into Platform for SPOTLIGHT: AN EXHBITION BY ART FACTORY AND NU GEN which opened at the end of June and is running all the way until Sat 30 Aug. Come along during Glasgow Life's opening hours, Monday to Saturday, 10am - 5pm (8pm on Tuesdays & Thursdays), to get the chance to look at the incredible work done by our Taking Part groups. 

Join us for THREE60's SHUFFLE SCRATCH NIGHT on Fri 18 Jul at 7pm. Are you interested in Street Dance, Hip-Hop & African dance styles? Then this scratch night dedicated to Scottish street dance artists will be perfect for you. The evening showcases four exciting acts, each one sharing a performance that reflects their unique take on street dance. 

On Sat 19 July & Sat 26 July, we have our SUMMER FESTIVALS from 12pm - 4pm. The first of these two festival days will take place in Alexandra Park on Sat 19 July, and the second will be at The Bridge. Both are packed full of activities, live entertainment, rides and inflatables, stalls, workshops, food and drinks - and much more! Come along with the whole family to join in the fun! 

Come to Platform to attend the launch of the EASTERHOUSE STAINED GLASS WINDOW, inspired by archive material and community stories and handmade collectively by local people with Keira Mclean and Joey Simons. Join us from 2pm - 4pm on Thu 24 July. This event is free but ticketed, so make sure to book your tickets in advance to secure your spot. Ticket link here. 

Moving into September, we have the return of the popular BIG BAND TEA DANCES with Jon Ritchie and That Swing Sensation on Tue 16 & Wed 17 September, at 1pm. Join us for tea dance extravaganza and enjoy live music, tea, sandwiches, cakes, guest vocalists, dancers and more. 

We are also delighted to be hosting the film screening of BEANS ON SCREEN, a film about the power of beans and the benefits of growing, cooking and eating together as a community. This film screening is part of the Take One Action Film Festival, and will feature FARE Community Allotments. 

Also opening in September is DAYTRIPPING, an exhibition of a collection of evocative photographs by Alan Dimmick, documenting the joy of day trips, celebrating people and place. Selected from a vast archive, the photos celebrate old traditions of west coast jaunts, including Millport, Isle of Cumbrae. Opening on Sat 20 Sept, this free exhibition is running until Sat 17 Jan 2026, Mondays to Saturdays during Glasgow Life Opening hours, so drop in anytime. 

At the beginning of October, we have the incredible STUNTMAN, an explosive physical performance by two men exploring the relationships between violence and masculinity through stunts and satire. Come along to this SUPERFAN performance at 7pm on Tuesday 7 October. 

For children and families we welcome HERCULES THE BEAR, a Scottish Theatre Producers' performance, coming to Platform on Saturday 11 October. This performance is inspired by the true story of a 10-foot grizzly bear raised in Scotland by human parents, and is definitely not one to miss. 

The following Saturday (18 Oct), DORIS UHLICH: COME BACK AGAIN will be in Platform. Presented by Take Me Somewhere, this is a performance about the courage to challenge one's own body biography and choose previously untaken paths at an advanced age. Choreographer Doris Uhlich collaborates with Susanne Kirnbauer-Bundy for this world premiere. 

THESE MECHANISMS by Christine Thynne & Robbie Synge will be at Platform on Tuesday 21 Oct, in a performance bringing together an octogenarian, stepladders, electronics…and water? Brimming with joy and curiosity, Christine manipulates an raps her way along a precarious journey, taking us to interesting places. 

We have more amazing performances from Take Me Somewhere Festival 2025 on Thursday 23 Oct, the first WAYQUEYCUNA is at 7pm and follows artist Tiziana Cruz as he takes the knotty path back to childhood in northern Argentina to reconnect with his community. On the same evening, immediately afterwards, will be HANDLE WITH CARE at 8:45pm. Handle With Care puts the audience in control - choose your role and see how the performance unfolds. 

The final Saturday of October will see GLASGOW EAST COMICON coming to Platform. Join us for all things film and comics, exploring costumes and props, browse trader stalls, geek out and get your picture taken with your favourite characters - with some very special guests coming along. This collaboration between FUSE and Platform is not one to miss, so come on down on Saturday 25 Oct at 11am. 

Rounding out October, Starcatchers and Dirliebane Theatre Company present LAAAUNCH! coming to Platform on Fri 31 Oct & Sat 1 Nov. Made specially for babies up to 12 months, join stellar adventurers Dot, Dash and Minim for an interactive and rhythmical journey of physical exploration, strength, excitement and determination that requires the expertise of your baby.

Moving into November, Snap-Elastic present DUSSSKK, a highly interactive, sensory performance for disabled and neurodivergent teenagers and their companions. Featuring singing, costumes and dancing, DUSSSKK has been made specifically with and for young people who enjoy sound. Come along to Platform on Sat 8 Nov at 11am & 2pm to enjoy this performance. 

And last but not least we are super excited for the return of the Christmas show, which this year will be…A CHRISTMAS CAROL. From the team that brought you Cinderella and Rumpelstiltskin and written by Lewis Hetherington, this Christmas performance is definitely not one to miss, with a new modern take on the classic Christmas tale. Will the three spooky and very silly ghosts help Carol Scrooge find the true meaning of Christmas before it is too late? Come along to any of the to a day or evening performance from Tuesday 2 to Wednesday 24 December to find out! Group bookings available.

Can't wait to see you at Platform for these incredible events!

Our next Taking Part block starts back from Monday 25 August 2025 until 20 December 2025 with a varied line up of classes and workshops on offer - as well as some brand new classes - Painting Club, Art & Design Portfolio Development and Platform Dance! 

This runs alongside our creative programme, which has been announced for July through to December. See the full programme here or pick up a copy when next in Platform.

Sessions are relaxed and welcoming and are led by artists / professional tutors. No previous experience is required and taster sessions are also available if you wish to try a class first (see class listings for details).

Classes are offered on a Pay-What-You-Like basis, where you decide what you'd like to donate. As a guide, we recommend a payment of £5 per class. You can pay for a full block up front or pay weekly - both online or at the class itself in cash (via our donations box) or by card.  

MUSIC 

Platform Singers (16 years+) | Fridays | 2.30pm - 4pm

Run by opera singer and choir leader Rachel Hynes, Platform Singers is a relaxed, welcoming group and no singing experience is needed. We start off each session with a chat & cuppa at 2.30pm before moving onto singing. If you just want to sing then join us at 3pm. As well as being social and fun, there are lots of health benefits to singing - you can find out more details here.

Guitar & Fiddle Lessons (adults & children age 8yrs+)  | Tuesdays  | from 5pm

Our Guitar and Fiddle lessons are held as group sessions and are led by professional musicians, who bring lots of experience, talent and expertise to each class. Super friendly, they are open to all ages from 5yrs+ and all levels of experience. More details for Guitar lessons here and details for Fiddle here.

Drum Lessons | (adults & children age 8yrs+) | Mondays & Thursdays  | from 5pm

One-to-one sessions led by experienced tutors -  super welcoming and open to everyone age 8yrs and over, at any level of experience. More details here.

VISUAL ART

Clack and Yak Knitting Group (16yrs+) | Mondays  |  11am - 1pm

Platform’s  Clack and Yak knitting group meet in the Platform Cafe  for a chat and a cuppa whilst knitting, sewing or crocheting. Friendly and informal, beginners, improvers or seasoned knitters alike are all welcome. Wool, needles and patterns provided. More information here.

Nu Gen Art + Design (11yrs +) | Tuesdays |  5pm - 6.30pm

Nu Gen is a fun, weekly art group that is artist led and challenges teenagers to make artwork that represents their interests, exploring identity and what it is to be an artist. If you like drawing, painting or sculpture, are studying art at school or fancy trying something new - then Nu Gen is for you! Full details here.

Painting Club (16yrs+) | 1pm - 2:30pm

Artist led skills development session with a focus on watercolour painting. Aimed at beginners and those wanting to get creative. More details here. 

Art Factory (16yrs+) | Tuesdays  | 2.45pm - 4pm

A relaxed, informal space for adults to get creative and inspired with activities and advice on various art techniques. A great way to get involved in a whole host of different types of art activities. More details here.

Art & Design Portfolio Development (16 - 25 yrs) | Thursdays | 7pm - 8:15pm

Designed for those at school, college or in between, looking to apply for further education or professional training, these weekly workshops will focus on building design and fine art led portfolios. More details here. 

Saturday Art Club (5 - 11yrs) | Saturdays | 11am - 12pm & 1pm - 2pm

An informal art class aimed at primary school age children, offering a chance to be playful with materials and create artworks to take home. Artist led and a fun way to spend a Saturday! There are two sessions running due to demand for spaces. More info here.

MULTI-ARTFORM

Play Cafe (0-5yrs) | Saturdays | 11.15am - 12pm

Bring your wee ones along and enjoy some creative, sensory activities. Each week is different -  join us for theatre, dance, music and art and craft activities for babies and toddlers, all led by Platform’s associate artists. It doesn’t matter if you are a parent, grandparent, carer, auntie or uncle - everyone is welcome. Healthy drinks and snacks provided.  More details here.

PERFORMANCE

Monday Night Drama (8 – 16 yrs) | Mondays  | 5.30pm - 7pm

Monday Night Drama is a fun, weekly drama workshop for those age 8 -16 years old who are interested in performance, fun and creativity! The workshops are artist led and are designed to develop skills and confidence and meet new people. The class is split into 2 groups - 8-11yrs and 12-16yrs. More details here.

Platform Dance (8 - 16 yrs) | Thursdays | from 5pm

Platform Dance is a fun, weekly and informal workshop for children and young people interested in exploring dance. The workshops are designed to give young people a space to explore their creativity and meet new people. More details here. 

This week marked the end of current Platform Taking Part block (Apr - Jun), to celebrate, participant's family and friends were invited along to watch some of the amazing things that the various groups have been working on. 

The Monday Night Drama group screened a film they have been working on for this past year, all about a magical poncho. The screening took place during their last session and was a great way to see all of the hard work put in by each and every person who had worked on making the film. The magical poncho itself was knitted by the Platform knitting group, Clack and Yak, who meet on Monday mornings in the Platform Cafe Bar. 

Watch the Monday Night Drama film here: https://vimeo.com/1095543594

On Tuesday night, the music classes came together in the Platform auditorium to perform pieces that they have been working on during this Taking Part block. It was a wonderful evening of performances and a brilliant chance to see everything the musicians have been up to. 

Tuesday also saw the opening of the Spotlight: An exhibition by Art Factory and Nu Gen. The new exhibition features a range of drawings, paintings and sculptures created by the young people and adults who have been attending Platform's weekly taking part art groups. The exhibition runs until Saturday 30 August, and it is free to drop in and take a look at, anytime Monday to Saturdays, 10am-5pm (open to 8pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays) - find out more here.

All of these events have been the perfect way to round off this block of Taking Part and we can't wait until they start back up again in August after the summer break - keep your eyes peeled for posts about this and more information to come! 

Join us at Platform over the summer holidays for a packed programme of free food and creative activities! 

Running weekdays from Monday 30 June to Friday 8 August 2025, children and families can come down to the Platform Café Bar and enjoy a free breakfast & lunch. The meals are drop in - no need to book - and served on a first come, first served basis and runs weekdays only. Parents/carers to stay with children.  Breakfast is served between 10am -11.30am, activities run between 10am - 10.30am & 11am - 12.30pm, and lunch is served 12noon - 2pm.

We’ll have a selection of healthy, filling and delicious food on offer – with vegan and gluten free options. There will be a variety of different foods each week and each day and will include things like cereals, toast, pancakes & hot morning rolls for breakfast along with pizza, baked potatoes, burgers, soup and sandwiches for lunch - as well as fruit, snacks and treats. Food offerings will change daily and are subject to availability. 

Creative activities include a wide range of things to try - from film screenings, art workshops, dance sessions, sport tasters, performances as well as as selection of board games and colouring available each day - plus lots more! Activities are either drop in or sign up on the day and are subject to change/availability. The Glenburn Centre is visiting Platform every Thursday morning throughout the school holidays to host sports activities.

This year we also have an incredible holiday club host, Joanna, here on certain days throughout the holidays, so if you are coming along for the holiday fun, make sure to say hi-  and don't forget to pick up a Platform summer passport, get stamps and be in with a chance of winning a prize!

As well as Platform activities there is lots of other stuff going on at The Bridge - including Lego, books and games in the library and a ‘Story Garden’ Summer Reading Challenge which is free to take part in - read more here or pop into the library for more information. Glasgow Life is also offering free family swims - book via the Glasgow Life website.

ACTIVITIES SCHEDULE:

W/C 28 JULY

10am - 10.30am

Mon 28 → Board games, jigsaws and colouring in

Tue 29 & Wed 30 → MAKE DO craft takeover + free books + clothes rail - activities also include cardboard box/DIY toy building with Rebecca, DIY back to school name tags with Elise, make DIY bath salt/ bath bombs with Debs alongside free book stall and swap shop clothes rail. Plus kids free dental advice and packs on Wed 30th.

Thu 31 → Sports tasters with The Glenburn Centre -take part in inside golf, boxing and group & obstacle games

Fri 1 → Make a yummy (no bake) flap jack - eat it there and then or take it home with you!

+

11am – 12.30pm

Mon 28 → Creative letter/story writing with Sean McGarvey - share stories of Easterhouse past, present and future - from your imagination or your real life!

Tue 29 & Wed 30 → MAKE DO craft takeover + free book + clothes rail - activities also include cardboard box/DIY toy building with Rebecca, DIY back to school name tags with Elise, make DIY bath salt/ bath bombs with Debs alongside free book stall and swap shop clothes rail. 

Thu 31→ Drama workshop with Platform's Monday Night Drama group

Fri 1 → Street dance workshop with Three60 - get moving and have lots of fun!

W/C 4 AUGUST

10am - 10.30am

Mon 4 → Board games, jigsaws and colouring in

Tue 5 → Spanish language taster with fun taser session with Walter Sandoval from Growing 21 

Wed 6 → Make a yummy (no bake) flap jack - eat it there and then or take it home with you!

Thu 7 → Sports tasters with The Glenburn Centre -take part in inside golf, boxing and group & obstacle games.

Fri 8 → Board games, jigsaws and colouring in

+

11am – 12.30pm

Mon 4 → Workshop with Sean McGarvey

Tue 5   → Lego workshop with Tick Watson - get creative and get building! Lego provided

Wed 6 → Drama workshop with Geraldine Heaney

Thu 7 → Art workshop with Katrine Turner

Fri 8 → Art workshop with Alice Dansey Wright 

Line up is subject to change.

Platform has welcomed thousands of local families over the last few years to the food programme and are proud to offer this service to the local community. 

Thank you to Glasgow City Council Children’s Holiday Food and Activity Programme for funding.

For further details or if you have any questions, please contact info@platform-online.co.uk

Line up is subject to change.

We’ve welcomed thousands of local families over the last few years to the food programme and are proud to offer this service to the local community. 

Thank you to Glasgow City Council Children’s Holiday Food and Activity Programme for funding.

For further details or if you have any questions, please contact info@platform-online.co.uk

Platform's Monday Night Drama group has been working on the creation of a film over this past year - and it's all about a magical poncho!

Clack and Yak knitting group, who meet on a Monday morning in The Bridge/Platform Cafe Bar, collaborated with Monday Night Drama and knitted a poncho is now a central part of the film!

Some of the group shared some words on the creation of the film…

“The Platform knitting group made the poncho that will be used for our film…coming soon!”

“Hello everyone - my name is Liam and I'm here on the magical poncho film set and it's very magical. Shree and Liam are having a light saber duel... anyway the poncho was forged in cyber krystal... or it was knitted?!”

"Monday Night Drama is a club where you can make friends and do drama."

“We'll be screening the film on our last session this term on Monday 16th June... so we better get finished!”

Read more about Monday Night Drama (8-16yrs) here.

Imagine stepping into a dark room that slowly transforms into something otherworldly - white sheets hanging like soft clouds, projections of trees, birds, and golden skies glowing gently around you. During the Platform Easter Holiday Food Programme, it felt like a storybook had quietly come to life in the Platform Studio Theatre…

As part of the Easter activities - which ran across the school holidays and welcomed children and families along to take part in a range of free creative activities, along with free breakfasts and lunches each weekday - we were delighted to host the magical children’s dance workshop and performance A Journey of Flight with Kathryn Gordon and Jorja Follina. 

The Easter programme itself featured everything from music sessions and science experiments to planting workshops, yoga, nature walks, and energetic dance activities - and A Journey of Flight was a joyful highlight that brought imagination and movement together in a truly memorable experience.

For the performance, soothing music filled the room, the dancers moved like birds in flight - elegant and full of purpose. Some children watched wide-eyed, completely still, while others returned to see the show for a second time, drawn back by the magical atmosphere, that sense of something special in the air.

Through the actions of choreographer & dancer Kathryn and dancer Jorja, the performance told the story of a bird’s journey - from hatching to its first big leap into the unknown, embodied in the dancers movements and expressions. It was calm, beautiful, and full of life - until a twist came…

Nine-year-old Alex had a pre-arranged secret mission from Kathryn: to break the stillness. Quietly, he stepped forward and launched a paper plane right at her head - laughter erupted. Suddenly, planes were flying everywhere. Kids jumped up, running, dancing, sliding under sheets, dodging enemy paper planes. They weren’t just watching anymore - they were in it. The space became theirs….a moment of pure joy, freedom, and flight.

The audience - from toddlers to grandparents – were all drawn into it. Many described the show as “relaxing”, “moving”, and “beautiful.” The dancing, music, and lighting were highlights that helped “tell a great story”, and the paper plane-making was a favourite moment for kids and grown-ups alike. 

One parent loved most “the joy on children’s faces and watching my son join in with other children”. Some said the performance reminded them of birds, play, movement, and even changing seasons. Another one said: “This was the first time watching this kind of performance. It’s amazing! My son enjoyed it”.

Kathryn shared: “It was lovely to engage with the participants in the workshops, and I loved the connection we built with them prior to the performance at the workshop we also hosted.

“It really helped the show along, being able to smile at audience members that we'd already engaged with. We love coming to Platform and meeting the young people and families in the area.”

Read more about the Easter holiday food programme here.

Images: Alison Piper

Marketing intern Alba paid a visit to Platform’s Art Factory and Nu Gen art classes...

"From flying penguins to a giant toucan, from big leaves to tattoo-inspired snakes & roses, and even a comic strip titled The Last Supper - with ‘Supper’ crossed out and replaced with “Art Class” - these are just a few of the wonderful and bold creations from Platforms' Art Factory (adults) and Nu Gen (11yrs+) groups!

"The moment you step into the Art Factory, you can feel it: whether it’s bright colours or just black and white, creativity is everywhere. It’s such a great space to express yourself and let go - and you’ll probably get the itch to start making something yourself!

"The group took a little journey into local history, swapping stories over chats and cookies. One of the artworks marked the 850th anniversary of Glasgow’s famous coat of arms emblem while another gave us a fantastic cubist take on the medieval neighbouring Provan Hall building.

"Group member Suzanne’s big fluorescent “I am sensitive” leaf is an iconic creation, beautifully capturing the therapeutic role that art can play, echoing a freedom of expression.

"Creativity is at the heart of Art Factory, as Kit, one of our regulars and the creator of the flying penguins, says: “You can always experiment and try out new things and techniques!”.

"When popping into the Nu Gen group, which is for high school children, it was great to see fun and free-flowing imaginations: there were beans, Gorillaz characters, flowers, and jellyfish - a wild mash-up of quirky ideas all coming to life in one energetic, creative space. It's always amazing how kids can take things that have been around for a while - like Gorillaz music - and imprint them a fresh meaning.

"Platform’s Nu Gen art space really opens up room for this kind of playful exploration; it's a place where every kind of odd idea or offbeat reference not only fits in but thrives. It's a free, expressive zone where young people can get in tune with their creative instincts, let loose, and surprise you with what they come up with.

"Once again, they proved that the more you imagine, the more you can create.”

Classes are Pay-What-You-Like where you choose what to pay:

- Art Factory for adults
→Tuesday 22 April  → Tuesday 24 June 2025 | 1pm & 2.45pm (The current Art Factory block is focusing on water colour techniques and self led art.)

- Nu Gen for 11yrs+
→Tuesday 22 April  → Tuesday 24 June 2025 | 5pm - 6.30pm

It was all go at Platform over the Easter school holidays – thank you to all the children and families who came along to enjoy food and creative activities.

We served up free breakfasts and lunches on weekdays and the space was busy with families catching up over breakfast in the morning and sharing lunch before joining in on activities.

From music sessions, art and science activities and planting workshops, to yoga, nature walks and energetic dance workshops – there was something for everyone.

The Platform auditorium was turned into a cinema with screenings of Sing 2, Moana 2 and The Wild Robot, as well as imaginative fun with paper plane making and a brilliant music workshop with Sprog Rock.

Some feedback from a wee one attending A Journey of Flight’s paper plane interactive workshop/performance: “It was fun to play, I loved when I threw the paper plane on the dancer’s head!” whilst a toddler shared; “I love strawberries and I can have so many here!”.

Big thanks to Seven Lochs Wetland Park, Harley and Claire from The Conservation Volunteers, Intergenerational Mentoring Network, Sprog Rock band, musician Rachel Wilson from our Taking Part Music programme, Anna for her yoga session, Susan Wilson from FARE Allotments,  A journey of Flight, Soup performance and to Dami from Three 60 Dance Collective for the amazing shows and workshops.

The Bridge library was open throughout with board games and Lego thanks to Glasgow Life, who also offered free swims.

A warm thank you to the families who came along and brought such great energy and vibes to the building!

We’re grateful to Glasgow City Council’s Children’s Holiday Food and Activity Programme for funding.

We were also delighted to be working again with Celtic Foundation, providing arts activity as part of their Easter Games programme. Alongside free breakfast and lunch and sports activity, Platform provided a selection of sessions during the second week of the Easter Holidays for kids attending - who were from local primary schools in Parkhead and Helenslea. 

Activities included drama sessions led by Sean McGarvey from Platform’s Taking Part programme, art and craft sessions led by artist Pearl Kinnear, street dance sessions led by Dami from Three 60 Dance collective, and clay modelling-sculpture activity led by artist Alys Owen.

A Journey of Flight workshop/performance pictures by Alison Piper.

We are delighted to announce the return of Alexandra Park Festival Day on Sat 19 July and The Bridge Family Festival on Sat 26 July 2025! Gearing up to be great days out for the whole family, both events are packed full of activities and things to do and see - entry is free!

Both festivals will host live music and entertainment, children's activities, stalls, sports tasters, rides and inflatables, food & drinks, performances, Glasgow Kelvin College Musical Workshops, prize draws and much more. 

The free roller disco will be making a return to The Bridge Festival Day as well as free art activities and print making with Print Clan, free caricatures, free balloon modelling and much, much more!

Alexandra Park festival will welcome the return of live wrestling from Iron Girders Gym, free face painting, free art activities and print making with Print Clan and free balloon modelling - plus lots more. We will also be holding a competition to win a £75 shopping voucher - drop by the Platform stall to enter. 

Watch this space and keep an eye here on our website and social media channels @platformglasgow for more information and line up details. We hope you can join us!

Festivals are subject to license and line up is subject to change.

With thanks to our supporters and funders: National Lottery Community Fund, Glasgow City Council, Creative Scotland, Glasgow Life, Glasgow Kelvin College and Milnbank Housing Association. 

Images by Iain McLean and of previous festivals.

INTERESTED IN HOSTING A COMMUNITY OR MARKET STALL?

If you are a community organisation looking to host a community stall please apply using this form.

If you are market trader and wish to apply for a stall please email admin@shsevents.co.uk who is dealing with market trader bookings.

We are delighted to announce our new season creative programme for April to June 2025 - all on sale now! This runs alongside our Taking Part programme which is packed with lots of classes and workshops for all ages, and offered on a Pay-What-You-Like basis. 

Read the digital version of the What's On Guide here or pick up a hard copy in the venue. 

The Project Ability exhibition I Like Things I Remember continues until Saturday 31 May - a solo exhibition by Jonathan McKinstry, showcasing a collection of paintings inspired by childhood memories of fun, games and tasty treats. The paintings explore nostalgia that comes from growing up while holding onto a love for pop culture from a time past.

On Fri 11 & Sat 12 April we celebrate the release of Sprog Rock’s Born Ready album - featuring live music from the new album - sing along, dance around, or just chill out and listen! Family friendly!

On Thu 17 April at 7pm // BUZZCUT// Double Thrills 2025 present Glaswegian queer performance artist Katy Baird's latest show Get Off, performed in Glasgow, at Platform, for the first time. Plus new work from Glasgow-based artists Althea Young and Kirstin Halliday. Buzzcut is running a bus from Glasgow South and Glasgow Central to Platform (£5 return).

// GET OFF // presented by Katy Baird - “The average life expectancy of a woman in London is 83 years old. The average life expectancy of a woman in Glasgow is 78 years old. This means, when I go home to visit my mum next month, I’ll be 5 years closer to my death…”

A self-proclaimed hedonist Katy Baird has spent the last decade documenting her pursuit of pleasure. Attempting to understand what she does with her time, and what she’s going to do with the time she has left. Through humour and an existential haze of home videos, last night’s gabber, and sessions with her life coach – Get Off offers an unfiltered glimpse into our human need for distraction; exploring the depths of our desires and what truly gets us off.

Kirstin Halliday presents Desert Grassland Whiptail Lizards: Act 1, Scene 1. Dance Artist Kirstin Halliday debuts Desert Grassland Whiptail Lizards: Act 1, Scene 1, Plus Teaser for Double Thrills at Platform. Sharing an extract from their new work-in-progress dance-drama, that reimagines a unique species of lizard in an all-lesbian fantasy world.

Althea Young presents The Dreaming - as dreams of babies invade the waking world of Althea Young, she struggles to understand not only what she wants, but why? A work of auto-fictional performance, this work-in-progress flicks through dream-worlds consisting of lyrical text, responsive sound, and visceral choreography.

Get your glad rags on and your dancing shoes ready for Platform's big band tea dance extravaganza on Tue 29 Apr at 6pm & Wed 30 April at 1pm. With live music from Jon Ritchie and That Swing Sensation, vocalists and dancers. Guests will enjoy tea & drinks, sandwiches and cakes served at their table. We are also running a licensed bar.

Relax and unwind with your baby in the beautiful and immersive world Float created by Kerry Cleland and company and presented by Starcatchers – coming to Platform on Fri 9 & Sat 10 May at 10am. Designed for babies up to 12 months, this is a performance that will ebb and flow through the space during a 3-hour experience. Enjoy a gently interactive performance created inspired by the healing properties of water.
 
Excited to be welcoming Mele Broomes 'through warm temperatures' to Platform as part of Dance International Glasgow 2025 on Fri 16 May at 7pm (BSL Interpreted) & Sat 17 May at 2pm. Blending vocals, dance, live cello and electronic soundscapes, this dance show takes the audience on a journey of reconnection—with nature and the body. Dance International Glasgow 2025 is produced by Tramway.

Originally commissioned to open the 20th Anniversary of The Edinburgh Art Festival (2024) and winning Bestie Award for Movement, through warm temperatures has been presented as a trio at ActOral Festival (Marseille, France, 2024). This is the first time it has been presented in Mele’s hometown, Glasgow.

There are lots of great events coming up this April which are part of the Easterhouse Living Archive Project  which follow a series of workshops and gatherings at Platform hosted by Keira McLean and Joey Simons which focused around the creation of Easterhouse Stained Glass Window - discussing, researching and looking at ways of making of a community stained glass window and print publication.

April workshops include songwriting with Lorna MacBean and designing the stained glass window with Keira on Saturday 5 April - these take place at Platform. Keira is also running a a glass cutting workshop on Saturday 23 April at her studio in Dennistoun - where the group will start to make the stained glass window.

The project forms part of the Living Archive for Easterhouse in collaboration with Glasgow City Heritage Trust.
 

Our next Taking Part block starts back from Tuesday 22 April 2025 with a varied line up of classes and workshops on offer. This runs alongside our creative programme, which has been announced for April through to July. See the full programme here or pick up a copy when next in Platform.

Sessions are relaxed and welcoming and are led by artists / professional tutors. No previous experience is required and taster sessions are also available if you wish to try a class first (see class listings for details).

Classes are offered on a Pay-What-You-Like basis, where you decide what you'd like to donate. As a guide, we recommend a payment of £5 per class. You can pay for a full block up front or pay weekly - both online or at the class itself in cash (via our donations box) or by card.  

If a class is showing as fully booked please email tickets@platform-online.co.uk  - often spaces come up.

MUSIC 

Platform Singers (16 years+) | Fridays | 2.30pm - 4pm

Run by opera singer and choir leader Rachel Hynes, Platform Singers is a relaxed, welcoming group and no singing experience is needed. We start off each session with a chat & cuppa at 2.30pm before moving onto singing. If you just want to sing then join us at 3pm. As well as being social and fun, there are lots of health benefits to singing - you can find out more details here.

Guitar & Fiddle Lessons (adults & children age 8yrs+)  | Tuesdays  | from 5pm

Our Guitar and Fiddle lessons are held as group sessions and are led by professional musicians, who bring lots of experience, talent and expertise to each class. Super friendly, they are open to all ages from 5yrs+ and all levels of experience. More details for Guitar lessons here and details for Fiddle here.

Drum Lessons | (adults & children age 8yrs+) | Mondays & Thursdays  | from 4.30pm

One-to-one sessions led by experienced tutors -  super welcoming and open to everyone age 8yrs and over, at any level of experience. More details here.

VISUAL ART

Clack and Yak Knitting Group (16yrs+) | Mondays  |  11am - 1pm

Platform’s  Clack and Yak knitting group meet in the Platform Cafe  for a chat and a cuppa whilst knitting, sewing or crocheting. Friendly and informal, beginners, improvers or seasoned knitters alike are all welcome. Wool, needles and patterns provided. More information here.

Nu Gen Art + Design (11yrs +) | Tuesdays |  5pm - 6.30pm

Nu Gen is a fun, weekly art group that is artist led and challenges teenagers to make artwork that represents their interests, exploring identity and what it is to be an artist. If you like drawing, painting or sculpture, are studying art at school or fancy trying something new - then Nu Gen is for you! Full details here.

Art Factory (16yrs+) | Tuesdays  | 1pm & 2.45pm

A relaxed, informal space for adults to get creative and inspired with activities and advice on various art techniques. A great way to get involved in a whole host of different types of art activities. More details here.

Saturday Art Club (5 - 11yrs) | Saturdays | 11am - 12pm & 1 - 2pm

An informal art class aimed at primary school age children, offering a chance to be playful with materials and create artworks to take home. Artist led and a fun way to spend a Saturday! There are two sessions running due to demand for spaces. More info here.

MULTI-ARTFORM

Play Cafe (0-5yrs) | Saturdays | 11.15am - 12.15pm

Bring your wee ones along and enjoy some creative, sensory activities. Each week is different -  join us for theatre, dance, music and art and craft activities for babies and toddlers, all led by Platform’s associate artists. It doesn’t matter if you are a parent, grandparent, carer, auntie or uncle - everyone is welcome. Healthy drinks and snacks provided.  More details here.

PERFORMANCE

Monday Night Drama (8 – 16 years) | Mondays  | 5.30pm - 7pm

Monday Night Drama is a fun, weekly drama workshop for those age 8 -16 years old who are interested in performance, fun and creativity! The workshops are artist led and are designed to develop skills and confidence and meet new people. The class is split into 2 groups - 8-11yrs and 12-16yrs. More details here.

Thursday Night Drama (16yrs+) | Thursdays |  6pm - 8pm

Thursday Night Drama is a place for adults age 16yrs+ who have an interest in performance. The company is open to members of all abilities and no previous experience required. It is a friendly, supportive space for new and emerging performers and performance artists to continue developing their skills and confidence as they move from full-time education and youth theatre into the creative industries and other sectors of the professional world. More details here.

Latest

There are lots of great events coming up this April which are part of the Easterhouse Living Archive Project.

These events follow a series of workshops and gatherings at Platform hosted by Keira McLean and Joey Simons which focused around the creation of Easterhouse Stained Glass Window - discussing, researching and looking at ways of making of a community stained glass window and print publication.

April workshops include songwriting with Lorna MacBean and designing the stained glass window with Keira on Saturday 5 April - these take place at Platform. Keira is also running a a glass cutting workshop on Saturday 23 April at her studio in Dennistoun - where the group will start to make the stained glass window.

The project forms part of the Living Archive for Easterhouse in collaboration with Glasgow City Heritage Trust.

Workshops are free but we ask that you book your space in advance. Contact margaret@platform-online.co.uk to book or for more information.

If you have any unwanted kids/teenager clothes, shoes, accessories (bags, hats etc) or school uniform, you can now drop these off to our ApparelXchange donation bin which is situated in the Platform Cafe Bar. 

ApparelXchange is is a social enterprise dedicated to the reuse, repair and recycling of all things kids and teenage fashion.  They have a shop in Pollokshields in the Southside of the city and a warehouse in Glasgow city centre. You can shop in the Pollokshields store or online here.

All types and conditions of clothing/shoes are welcome as ApparelXchange can repair items, but ask that all donations are washed and folded before being put into the bin.

ApparelXchange CIC was established in 2018 by Founding Director Izzie Eriksen, a mother of two, who was experiencing first hand the huge volume of clothing waste generated just from school uniform.

This inspired her to set up ApparelXchange, which combines sharing knowledge and enabling people to take responsibility and action for the clothing they use. The vision is to create a sustainable clothing system for young people, integrated in every community. 

Read more about ApparelXchange here.

Bird feeders, beasts and gargoyles, masks, recycled animals, recycled birds were just some of the creative activities taking place at Saturday Art Club over the last few months!

Let by artist Alys Owens, those attending had lots of fun using clay,  recycled card, paper, tissue and bottles to build, create and craft! We loved seeing so many fun ideas coming to life and recycled materials being put to use.

There's different activities taking place each week at Saturday Art Club and are artist led. Classes are aimed at those age 5-11yrs and are offered on a Pay-What-You-Like basis, where you decide what to pay. They run almost all year round, except for school holidays.

Find out more here.

It was great to welcome along so many people along to Platform earlier this month for Keira McLean and Joey Simons project launch of the Easterhouse Stained Glass Window.

The event was a chance for people to find out more about the new and upcoming heritage project - the creation of a stained glass window - which will form part of the Living Archive for Easterhouse project in collaboration with Glasgow City Heritage Trust.

Keira and Joey talked through the project which included details about a series of workshops that will explore lesser known stories and histories of north east Glasgow. Alongside information about opportunities to be part of the creative process in the design and making of a community stained glass window and print publication. 

Those attending chatted with Keira and Joey and had a look through archive material provided by Joey and Easterhouse Library. There was also a chance to check out materials and tools used in stained glass window making and try some glass cutting. 

Keira said: “It was great chatting through the project. The importance of researching, documenting and celebrating our own histories of resistance and survival feels more relevant than ever as Glasgow’s working class history and diaspora are further pushed to the margins. We are here and we want to live! Lots of great chat and sign ups. We canny wait to get stuck in!”.

The first two sessions for people to get involved will take place on Tuesday 18 February at Platform, both are free and no experience needed. All welcome.

TUESDAY 28 FEBRUARY:
Researching online archive | 2pm - 4pm
Learn how we can research the history of Easterhouse and Glasgow using digital collections, websites and resources like the Internet Archive. We will also look at ways we can use local libraries to uncover hidden histories and deposit our own stories. Get a shot on the computer and give it a go yourself!

Oral Histories | 5.30pm - 7.30pm 
Learn how we can record the story of Easterhouse by using oral history. What kind of questions are useful to ask in interviews? How can we use voice recorders? What can we do with the stories we record? Do you have a story of your own to tell? Get a shot with the recorders and start us off!  

Interested in taking part? Want to find out more or be kept up to date? Email: margaret@platform-online.co.uk or speak to a member of Platform team.

Easterhouse Stained Glass Window is supported by Glasgow City Heritage Trust and Platform in partnership with Glasgow Life - Libraries & Communities.

We recently extended a warm welcome to both The Glasgow Barons street orchestra and Primary 3 pupils from Oakwood Primary to Platform!

Since 2017, The Glasgow Barons have been uniting communities through music, bringing joy to schools and community centres across Govan and beyond. This January, their incredible street orchestra are on tour, visiting ‘Baby Strings’ schools across Glasgow and spreading the magic of music.

As well as touring primary schools they paid a special visit to Platform where their orchestra entertained and engaged the Oakwood Primary pupils, who had headed to the venue for the afternoon.

The pupils joined in with percussive rhythms whilst watching the conductor, whilst one pupil tried out the role of orchestra conductor….well done!

As well as wonderful live music from the orchestra, there was discussion led by Artistic Director & Conductor Paul MacAlinden around topics such as having an identity that no-one can take from you, the right to an opinion, the right to share what you think or have privacy of that opinion, the right to happiness and a look at self-reflection and what emotions and images music conjours up. 

Another topic was the musical rights for children from the International Music Council, looking at the right to express yourself musically in all freedom, the right to learn musical languages and skills and access to musical involvement through participation, listening, creation and information.

Thanks to both The Glasgow Barons and Oakwood Primary for visiting!

The sun was shining despite the frost, as we welcomed local residents and lots of local organisations to the first Community Breakfast of the year.

There was a packed morning of entertainment, speakers, breakfast (provided by The Halliday Foundation) and drinks - and a chance to meet and chat to others as well as finding out what's going on in the local area.

Singers, who attended a Glasgow Kelvin College Community Karaoke/DJ course run by Donna McGill of Thriving Places Easterhouse, took to the stage to perform for the audience and we heard from Donna, Andy Gilbert from The Glenburn Centre, Matt Addicott - Artistic Director of Platform,  Depute Head of Lochend Community High School Joe Wright, Pam Fulton from Easterhouse Baptist Church and artist Rebecca Fraser who chatted about upcoming MAKE DO events at Platform.

The breakfast was hosted at Platform in The Bridge Cafe Bar and Studio Theatre and was delivered in partnership with Easterhouse Baptist Church, The Halliday Foundation, FARE and Thriving Places Easterhouse.

Thank you to everyone who came along! Keep an eye on social media for details of the next Community Breakfast as these take place throughout the year at various venues and are free and drop in. All ages welcome!

We welcomed lots of our Taking Part participants and their family and friends along to the Platform Studio Theatre for an end of year sharing/Christmas party!

As well as decorations and work created by some of our visual art groups, there were sharings from Monday Night Drama, Thursday Night Drama, live music from the Platform band and songs from Platform Singers.

It was wonderful to see and hear what the group have been up to in their weekly groups and for the audience to sit back and enjoy in the special, festive surroundings of the Studio Theatre.

It was a very merry festive Friday night indeed.

Thanks to everyone who came along and well done to our performers!
 

As our team finish up for the Christmas break we wanted to say a huge thank you to audiences, artists, partners, funders, peers and friends for the continued support over the past 12 months. It is greatly appreciated. The Platform office will close on Christmas Eve and reopen at 10am on Monday 6 January 2025.

Our Artistic Director Matt Addicott shares a look back at the past year…

"Although not without challenge, the past year has been full of great moments of hope and fun too. 

The SoulsINQUEST exhibition launch in May was a particularly memorable moment for me. At this event, we heard not only from the hard working and inspiring team of photographers, artists and facilitators that form INQUEST but also from Linda and Stuart Allan, the parents of Katie Allan, June Hartigan, the mother of Kelly Hartigan-Burns and Kadi Johnson, Sheku Bayoh’s sister. Hearing from each about the impact that losing a loved one whilst imprisoned within the justice system was profoundly moving. 

Hearing how the project brought together other families and how collaborating with Sarah Booker and other artists has helped as they continue to process their loss and search for justice was a powerful reminder of the unique potential that art has to change lives. You can read more about INQUEST and their work here.

Towards the end of the year, we were delighted to be voted Glasgow Evening Times Arts Champions for North East Glasgow in recognition of the summer festivals we staged in Alexandra Park and here at The Bridge. A huge thanks to whoever was kind enough to put our name forward and to anyone and everyone that voted for us. 

Engagement with our programme of weekly classes and workshops continues to rise and places for the next block running from January to March are available to book here. It has been exciting to see and hear our music groups working closer together over the last few weeks and months and we look forward to seeing how these collaborations grow and develop in 2025.

By the time the curtain comes down on the final performance of Rumpelstiltskin over 6,500 people will have been to see the show, your support is much appreciated and it has been a joy to watch the show with audiences over the last few weeks. We could not have wished for a better team of people to make the show with and a huge congratulations to everyone involved from the stage management team to the 18 strong ensemble of performers from Glasgow Kelvin College, everyone has worked hard to make the show a success and their work is much appreciated. 98% of bookers that responded to our post show survey thought the show represented value for money with 100% indicating that they would be keen to return next year – please do, we would love to see you!

Hope too that you’ll join us before then too – coming up in January, we have a world premiere from Street Dance specialists 360 and in February another premiere from Glasgow based performance collective groupwork. Fresh from their highly successful run across the city at Tramway, Sprog Rock will be joining us to launch their brand-new album on Saturday 25^th January and we’ll also be hosting a brand new exhibition from Project Ability. For more information on upcoming shows and events at Platform, you can head here.

Thank you to everyone that has joined us for a workshop, attended a live performance or visited us at some stage this year – notable mention to all those parents, carers and friends that have helped transport audience members and group participants too!

Huge thanks to the whole staff team here as well as all the artists, technicians, volunteers, facilitators, stewards, café bar workers and other freelance and sessional staff that have contributed to our work in 2024. 

On behalf of everyone at Platform, we wish you a very merry festive season and look forward to seeing you in the New Year!"

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Matt 

Our next Taking Part block starts back w/c Monday 20 January with a varied line up of classes and workshops on offer. This runs alongside our creative programme, which has been announced for January through to March.

Sessions are relaxed and welcoming and are led by artists / professional tutors. No previous experience is required and taster sessions are also available if you wish to try a class first (see class listings for details).

Classes are offered on a Pay-What-You-Like basis, where you decide what you'd like to donate. As a guide, we recommend a payment of £5 per class. You can pay for a full block up front or pay weekly - both online or at the class itself in cash (via our donations can) or by card.  

If a class is showing as fully booked please email tickets@platform-online.co.uk to be added to the mailing list - often spaces come up.

MUSIC & DANCE

Street Dance Taster Workshops (8yrs+ & adults) | Various days & times

Join dancers from acclaimed street dance organisation THREE60 this January for a fun and informal introduction into street dance, hip-hop and African diaspora dance forms. Expect movement, games and lots of fun! Full details here.

Platform Singers (16 years+) | Fridays | 2.30pm - 4pm

Run by opera singer and choir leader Rachel Hynes, Platform Singers is a relaxed, welcoming group and no singing experience is needed. We start off each session with a chat & cuppa at 2.30pm before moving onto singing. If you just want to sing then join us at 3pm. As well as being social and fun, there are lots of health benefits to singing - you can find out more details here.

Guitar & Fiddle Lessons (adults & children age 8yrs+)  | Tuesdays  | from 5pm

Our Guitar and Fiddle lessons are held as group sessions and are led by professional musicians, who bring lots of experience, talent and expertise to each class. Super friendly, they are open to all ages from 5yrs+ and all levels of experience. More details for Guitar lessons here and details for Fiddle here.

Drum Lessons | (adults & children age 8yrs+) | Mondays & Thursdays  | from 4.30pm

One-to-one sessions led by experienced tutors -  super welcoming and open to everyone age 8yrs and over, at any level of experience. More details here.

VISUAL ART

Clack and Yak Knitting Group (16yrs+) | Mondays  |  11am - 1pm

Platform’s  Clack and Yak knitting group meet in the Platform Cafe  for a chat and a cuppa whilst knitting, sewing or crocheting. Friendly and informal, beginners, improvers or seasoned knitters alike are all welcome. Wool, needles and patterns provided. More information here.

Nu Gen Art + Design (11yrs +) | Tuesdays |  5pm - 6.30pm

Nu Gen is a fun, weekly art group that is artist led and challenges teenagers to make artwork that represents their interests, exploring identity and what it is to be an artist. If you like drawing, painting or sculpture, are studying art at school or fancy trying something new - then Nu Gen is for you! Full details here.

Art Factory (16yrs+) | Tuesdays  | 1pm & 2.45pm

A relaxed, informal space for adults to get creative and inspired with activities and advice on various art techniques. A great way to get involved in a whole host of different types of art activities. More details here.

Saturday Art Club (5 - 11yrs) | Saturdays | 11am - 12pm & 1 - 2pm

An informal art class aimed at primary school age children, offering a chance to be playful with materials and create artworks to take home. Artist led and a fun way to spend a Saturday! There are two sessions running due to demand for spaces. More info here.

MULTI-ARTFORM

Play Cafe (0-5yrs) | Saturdays | 11.15am - 12.15pm

Bring your wee ones along and enjoy some creative, sensory activities. Each week is different -  join us for theatre, dance, music and art and craft activities for babies and toddlers, all led by Platform’s associate artists. It doesn’t matter if you are a parent, grandparent, carer, auntie or uncle - everyone is welcome. Healthy drinks and snacks provided.  More details here.

Social Roots (all ages)  | Mondays  | 1pm - 2.30pm | Free

Join us on Mondays at the Platform Cafe Bar for Social Roots!  It's a great way to find out what community groups are doing in the area and what events and activities are taking place. Everyone is welcome - drop in between 10am - 12noon for a chat and a free cuppa. 

PERFORMANCE

Monday Night Drama (8 – 16 years) | Mondays  | 5.30pm - 7pm

Monday Night Drama is a fun, weekly drama workshop for those age 8 -16 years old who are interested in performance, fun and creativity! The workshops are artist led and are designed to develop skills and confidence and meet new people. The class is split into 2 groups - 8-11yrs and 12-16yrs. More details here.

Thursday Night Drama (16yrs+) | Thursdays |  6pm - 8pm

Thursday Night Drama is a place for adults age 16yrs+ who have an interest in performance. The company is open to members of all abilities and no previous experience required. It is a friendly, supportive space for new and emerging performers and performance artists to continue developing their skills and confidence as they move from full-time education and youth theatre into the creative industries and other sectors of the professional world. More details here.

Platform Taking Part is supported by Creative Scotland, Glasgow City Council Community Fund and Garfield Weston Foundation.

We are delighted to announce our new season exhibitions and performances for January through to March. This runs alongside our Taking Part programme which is packed with lots of classes and workshops for all ages, and offered on a Pay-What-You-Like basis. This season's Taking Part programme offers some Street Dance Taster Workshops from THREE60 in January! 

Read the digital version of the What's On Guide here or pick up a hard copy in the venue. 

Kicking off the season on Saturday 25 January , celebrate the release of Sprog Rock’s Born Ready album - featuring live music from the new album - sing along, dance around, lay on the floor, have a cuddle or even a nap! Also taking place that day at Platform is MAKE DO - a free, drop in event running from 12noon - 2pm, which celebrates local resources and skills and where you can take part in activities, shop at stalls and enjoy free refreshments.

On Friday 31 January and Saturday 1 February, THREE60 in association with Platform brings us World’s Evolution, a dance show that will take you on a journey from the origins of humanity until modern days, highlighting the continuous growth of mankind. Explore with us the vast beauty of our motherland, Africa, the epicentre of where human life began, and how humanity has evolved since then.

On Saturday 1 February artists Keira McLean and Joey Simons on a new project that will create a Stained Glass Window.  Help us design and make a community Stained Glass Window that will form part of our Living Archive for Easterhouse project in collaboration with Glasgow City Heritage Trust. Join Keira and Joey as they talk you through the aims and plans of the project, followed by an informal chat over tea and coffee. There will also be the opportunity to check out materials and tools used in stained glass window making and have a go at some glass cutting for yourself! Free but ticketed - please book your space.

When Prophecy Fails from groupwork in association comes to Platform on Friday 7 and Saturday 8 February -  a daring new piece of physical theatre based on a 1954 study outlining a groundbreaking theory of human behaviour now known as “cognitive dissonance. The show reimagines the events surrounding history's very first UFO doomsday cult who, convinced of an impending apocalypse, prepare themselves for salvation via flying saucer. 

Project Ability Returns with I Like Things I Remember on  Saturday 15 February until Saturday 30 May  - a solo exhibition by Jonathan McKinstry, showcasing a collection of paintings inspired by childhood memories of fun, games and tasty treats. The paintings explore nostalgia that comes from growing up while holding onto a love for pop culture from a time past..

There's also a last chance to see Two-Step's large scale Scribbling/Scrabbling exhibition - on until Friday 10 January.

And sneaking in as part of our post March programme is //BUZZCUT// who present Glaswegian queer performance artist Katy Baird’s latest show Get Off, performed in Glasgow for the first time. Plus new work from Glasgow-based artists Craig Manson and Althea Young! 

Over the past month, Platform has been on the road with Jon Ritchie and That Swing Sensation, visiting groups and community centres around Easterhouse and North East Glasgow!

Paul from the band visited The Forge Shopping Centre for the Christmas light switch on in November, with the full band going out to perform to audience at Helenslea Community Hall , Calton Heritage and Learning Centre, The Daffodil Club, Barmulloch Community Development Company, Glenburn Centre,  Phoenix Centre, Alive and Kicking at Petershill FC, The Ruchazie Pantry, Glenburn Centre, Cranhill Development Trust.

It's been wonderful seeing everyone enjoying festive tunes and live music - with lots of dancing, chatting and singing too.

Matt Addicott, Artistic Director for Platform, said: "It has been a real treat to join Jon Ritchie and That Swing Sensation during their recent tea dance tour. They've visited numerous halls, centres and groups across North East Glasgow and I defy anyone to find a better way to get into the festive mood! Huge thanks to Jon and the band as well as all the groups and venues that have welcomed us in with such warmth and hospitality."

With thanks to the Glasgow Council for the Voluntary Sector's Wellbeing Fund for supporting this project.  

 The Full House Friday Bingo attendees were treated to an afternoon of music from the newly formed Platform Band!

The musicians were made up of fiddle and guitar players from the Platform Taking Part music lessons and were led by group tutor Celine.

It was the first outing for the musicians, who played a range of beautiful music  - including festive tunes, and they were warmly received by those attending Full House Friday Bingo - which consists of a few rounds of bingo, lunch and entertainment every week.

Read more about Taking Part music lessons and how to get involved.

On Sat 9 November, The Bridge building was turned into the venue for a spooky, interactive audio audio haunt - Hexagone! 

Produced Moon and Storydive worked with young and emerging artists aged 14-25yrs from the local area to create a new audio experience, fusing audio storytelling with mind-bending puzzles, plunging participants into a ghostly adventure where reality blurs with the supernatural!  

Billed as **3 Million Followers. 1 Megastar. 0 Traces. Unravel the most chilling disappearance of the year in this new immersive experience! Mark Benet, Europe's rising horror icon, has vanished without a trace. Was it a publicity stunt gone wrong? A sinister plot? Or something far more terrifying?** participants used a smartphone to decode cryptic clues around The Bridge,  where every step could be their last... or a breakthrough. Could the truth be uncovered before it's too late?

Alongside the haunt there was a Q&A with the project creators  - including 4  of the young people involved in the project answering questions: Darcey-Leigh, Logan, Saffron and Lennon - alongside the artists from Produced Moon. The Q&A also included a chat with Lyra Young Company who were performing 'That Feeling When' on the same day in the Platform auditorium (and which the Hexagone creators then attended afterwards).

The Q&A focused on the creative process, how the group made up the concept, story and characters, their experiences of voice acting and recording, what designing the puzzles was like, about what it was like to make a spooky/horror story, and their highlights of the experience.

Audience questions ranged from ‘What was is like to work with the German collaborators story-dive?’ and ‘What were some of the main themes and horror tropes you explored in the creation process?’ to ‘What was it like to collaborate within a diverse age range of 14-24yr olds’? 

Some feedback from the young artists/creators:

• "It's so exciting to see people listening and experiencing something you've made entirely from scratch" 
• "The teamwork within the group really made it such an amazing creative experience, to see the way the story came together inspires me to do many more projects like this." 
• "This was so much fun to do, meeting and working with new and familiar faces was so nice."
• "It was wonderful to work together to create something original and be involved in it's production and have it be premiered like this." 
• "It's brought my confidence out and I've found out I really like acting and drama. I will 100% do something like this again." 

During the day of the event, the young artists helped at the Platform welcome desk for those attending Hexagone and were on hand to assist audiences with the puzzles. They also had a try of the the audio haunt themselves, which was fun to do together as it was the first time for some of them hearing their voices in the recordings and see their puzzles in 'real life'.

Hexagone was designed, written and performed by Megan Baxter, Jessica Bradley, Awais Iqbal, Saffron Jezewski, Anastasia Joyce, Fay Jurriaanse, JJ McGonnegal, Kyle Nicholson, Logan Quail, Darcey-Leigh Sheppard, Lennon Versey & Abby-Ellen, with Produced Moon and Storydive. Trainee Facilitator: Margot Conde Arenas. Sound Design: Chizu Anucha. Photo and Video Documentation: Tao-Anas Le Thanh & Lucas Chih Peng Kao.

Audio Haunt concept was created through international collaboration between Hamburg based Audio Walk creators and app developers Storydive, and  Glasgow based interactive and immersive creatives Produced Moon. This work is the meeting of two practices and a mutual passion for bringing formal experimentation to participatory contexts. 

Oh yes it is! Announcing the lead cast of Rumpelstiltskin, our 2024 Christmas show, we are excited to welcome Michael Guest who will play Rumpelstiltskin, Scarlett Mack who joins us as Bunnyflops and Adam Buksh as Duncan McWoof. They are supported by an ensemble cast of HND Musical Theatre students from Glasgow Kelvin College.

Michael Guest trained at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, graduating from the BA Acting Course in 2021. Theatre credits include: The Comedy of Errors (Winner: Best Ensemble CATS Awards 2022), A Christmas Carol, Red Riding Hood (Citizens Theatre), A Midsummer Night's Dream (Scottish National Opera), Joke (Play, Pie, Pint) and Warriors (Army@TheFringe). Screen and radio credits include: Damaged (Amazon Prime), The Fall (BBC), The Five Thousand (BBC) and Raven's Hollow (Shudder).

Scarlett Mack studied Acting at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland and theatre work includes Bold Girls & Vanya at The Citizens Theatre, Ghosts: The Tron Theatre, Blithe Spirit: Perth Theatre and Multiple shows at the Edinburgh Fringe.  She has also worked with Stellar Quines, The Lowry Theatre, The Dukes Theatre, and many more. TV/Film work includes: The Nest (BBC), Dog Squad (BBC), Princess Mirror Belle (BBC), Outlander (Starz), Daly Grind (BBC), Rab C Nesbitt(BBC), The Demon Headmaster (BBC) and Blackbird.

In addition to narrating dozens of audiobooks, her voice can be heard regularly in commercials, radio plays, and video games.

Scarlett said: ‘"I’m really excited to be joining the company and playing the role of Bunnyflops  - a sentence I never thought I would  hear myself say! I hope you enjoy the show as much I am enjoying making it."

Adam Buksh is a Glasgow based actor, who has worked all around the UK for the last 10 years. He’s been involved in TV, theatre, pantomime, voice-over, motion capture for the Bannockburn Exhibition and is currently a continuity announcer for STV. Some of his credits include Burning Bright (PPP), The Stane (BBC Sounds), Scot Squad (BBC), Cinderella (Ayr Gaiety), Macbeth (Proteus Theatre), One Mississippi (Dijli).

Adam: “I'm thrilled to be joining the cast at Platform this year for Rumpelstiltskin and hoping to share plenty of laughs, cheers and boo's with audiences as Duncan McWoof and other roles within the show. And if you want to sing along with any of the songs you recognise, absolutely join in!”

Read more about the show from writer Lewis Hetherington.

Rumpelstiltskin runs from Tue 3 – Tue 24 December 2024. Tickets on sale here.

We are delighted to welcome 22 HND Musical Theatre students from Glasgow Kelvin College as the ensemble cast for our 2024 Christmas show Rumpelstiltskin. Supporting a lead cast of Michael Guest (Rumpelstiltskin), Scarlett Mack (Bunnyflops) and Adam Buksh (Duncan McWoof & others), Rumpelstiltskin will have a  34 show run, running from Tue 3 – Tue 24 December 2024.

The students, who are currently in their second year of the HND Musical Theatre at the adjoining Easterhouse campus, will be performing as an ensemble of the ‘Northern Lights’. They are: Kieran Williamson, Nathaniel Glass, Ryan Josey, Kyle McKeown, Jay Forsyth, Taylor Mcinnes, Ve McColl, Aimee Morgan, Ava Malarky, Kate Claremont, Karys France, Beth Calderwood, Mara Pralea, Kyra Crawford, Jodi Namyslak, Gemma Gillie, Penny MacNamara, Emma Young, Vannesa Tsybulska, Beau Cupples, Sinead Ritchie and Amy McDonald.

Rehearsals are well underway and student Karys France said: “I'm really excited to be in the show, looking forward to the challenge and bringing some extra Christmas spirit to the community”. Penny McNamara: “I'm looking forward to working with the professional cast who are in the show - it's a great opportunity opportunity'.

Lecturer in Performing Arts, Dimitrios Paparakis said: “Glasgow Kelvin College Performing Arts department is delighted to be part of this year’s performance of Rumpelstiltskin at Platform.

"The opportunity for our learners to develop while working alongside a fantastic creative team and professional actors at Platform has been an invaluable experience for our Musical Theatre students - and help bridge gaps that exist between education and industry''

Artistic Director of Platform Matt Addicott: "Everyone at Platform is delighted to be working with students from the HND Musical Theatre course from Glasgow Kelvin College.

"This will be the third festive production that second year students have joined us and we are very excited to start rehearsing. Joining the cast of Rumpelstiltskin is a fantastic opportunity to collaborate with highly experienced professional performers, directors, designers, choreographers, vocal coaches, technicians and stage managers.

"Whilst for our audiences, it's a real treat to see the stage full of such talented and enthusiastic performers - we wish them every success with the show and the rest of their studies and beyond."

Tickets for Rumpelstiltskin on sale here. 

Images from rehearsals at Platform with Lecturer Dimitrios Paparakis and Director Rosalind Sydney.

It's was wonderful to welcome Craft Scotland: If Only We Had the Space and Fire Stories: We Make the Road by Walking to Platform recently - with packed audiences for both events. 

In October, we hosted If Only We Had the Space panel discussion and exhibition (17- 26 Oct), which focused on contemporary craft responding to modern and contemporary politics of housing, property rights and access to ‘space’. The exhibition was curated by Rachel Ashenden, Soizig Carey, Jemima Dansey-Wright and Murray Morrant - and delivered in association with Craft Scotland, as part of COMPASS: Emerging Curator Programme, and Katy West, Programme Lead.  

A special panel discussion with Dr Adele Patrick and Deirdre Nelson took place surrounding the topic - hearing more about Adele’s decades-long activism and experience in housing projects, including Take Root, a pioneering women’s timber frame, self build housing project.  Known for her ability to translate social commentary into textiles, Deirdre spoke about her work featured in the exhibition: ‘Surplus’  - is a bright red knitted money box depicting a new-build house. It was created in response to Irish ghost estates (unoccupied or in varying states of disrepair or dereliction) that still exist as a result of the 2008 property crash.  

We rounded off with a drinks reception in The Den space at Platform and hosted free, drop in creative activities for kids by artist Jeni Allison to keep the wee ones entertained.

Celebrating a Century of Community Land in Scotland, the Fire Stories: We Make the Road by Walking event (Sat 2 Nov) was a cosy and relaxed afternoon of chat, song, poetry, film and performance - with sharing of histories and stories of The Craigallian Fire, Radical Glasgow, Scottish Land Reformers and the Community Spirit of Easterhoose! With a full turn out, the event focused round a ‘fireplace' set up, hosted by artist Keira McLean with special guests The Red Flag Players, Iain Craig from a Century of Community Land Digital Archive In Scotland, Doctur Normal, Joey Simons, Stephen MaGuire, Radical Glasgow Tours, Glasgow Struggle Housing Archive, Living Rent, Easterhouse Poet Laureate Jim Ferguson and Angela McLauchlin. 

We also have Two-Step's Scribbling/Scrabbling large scale artwork exhibition on and running until 11 January 2025 - free admission and drop in!

If Only We Had the Space images: Elaine Fisher

We caught up with playwright Lewis Hetherington, writer of our Christmas show Rumpelstiltskin, which starts at Platform on Tuesday 3 December.

This is Lewis’s 9^th Christmas show for Platform - and it's a goody! Past shows including Goldilocks, Red Riding Hood, Three Little Pigs, Puss in Boots, Rapunzel, Mother Goose fae Easterhoose, Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella. 

Rumpelstiltskin runs from Tue 3 – Tue 24 December 2024 and is family friendly with day and evening performances. Tickets are on sale now - book here.

What made you choose Rumpelstiltskin for this year’s show?

“I was excited to write about Rumpelstiltskin as he's a bit of a mystery, I've always wondered, who is this strange creature? Where does he come from? And what's he up to!?! I think he sometimes gets a bit of a bad rap, so I was interested in imagining - what is his backstory, what made him who he is?”

What can audiences expect?

“It's definitely a very original take, we start with Rumpelstiltskin at school, trying to make pals, dealing with all the highs and lows of that. And then it all becomes a bit epic, and we follow him gaining his powers, having adventures, and ultimately trying to find his place in the world, and who to share it with.”

Tell us more about the characters…

“Rumpelstiltskin - of course! But also his best pal at school Bunnyflops. She has QUITE the journey let me tell you. And then, Duncan MacWoof, Prince of the Kingdom and a bit of a plonker, is always getting in the way of things. Then there's lots of other colourful characters who pop up; a Glaikit Snake, Doctor Goat and the Northern Lights - magical creatures who help Rumpelstiltskin get up to mischief."

Any surprises to look out for?

"Now that would be telling! But I will say, there are lots of surprises along the way: betrayal, intrigue, romance...! And also - a lot of people think that Rumpelstiltskin is a bit of a rascal, but in this version you'll see that he's always only ever trying to do his best. Even if sometimes it goes a bit wrong…

“There are scenes in school and in the palace  at the North Pole. The set is looking beautiful and festive - and it'll really take you on a wild ride. And of course there is our signature mix of pop classics from the 80's, 90's and more... Human League, Snap, and of course we end with a stone cold Christmas classic!"

Why should people come and see it this Christmas?

“Because you'll have a great time! It's exciting, fast paced and full of intrigue. I've had fun writing it, so I think audiences will have fun watching the story unfold. It's full of Christmas cheer and there's things to make you laugh, maybe even shed a tear, and get you boogeying in your seat."

Rumpelstiltskin runs from Tue 3 – Tue 24 December 2024, with day and evening performances. Tickets from £6. Group bookings available. Our licensed Café Bar is open pre show and post morning shows. Book via Box Office (0141 276 9661), in person at the Platform Box Office or on our website (you can book up to 100 tickets online) HERE.

We welcomed lots of children and their families to Platform this October school week - thanks to everyone who came along to our holiday food and creative activities club!

Our Cafe Bar served up free breakfast and lunches from 9.30am - 2.30pm, Monday to Friday, and we hosted a packed schedule of activities starting from 9.30am including a film screening of Inside Out 2, art & dance workshops, family yoga session, group nature walks, Glasgow Life sport tasters as well as colouring sheets and board games every day. Thanks to Seven Lochs Wetland Park for the nature walks, to Provanhall for sharing lots of these fantastic kids and their art creations pictures - and to everyone else who came along and who supported the week long event.

One of the children attending said: “We really liked the film and breakfast was really yummy'! A mum said: We've been here a few days this week and there's been loads to do - the kids love it".

Glasgow Life offered free swims throughout the week and The Bridge library was open with Lego and board games.

Thank you to Glasgow City Council Children’s Holiday Food and Activity Programme for funding.

We're thrilled to be shortlisted for the Glasgow Times 'Arts Champion of the Year 'award for North East Glasgow - for our summer festivals; The Bridge Family Festival Day and Alexandra Park Festival.

The festivals take place at The Bridge in Easterhouse and Alexandra Park in Denniston every July and welcome thousands of families to a fun filled day out - entry is free and most activities were free or low cost. You can read more about the festivals here.

If you'd like to show your support, we'd be grateful if you would VOTE FOR US! Every vote counts and is very much appreciated. Voting closes Wednesday 30 October.

Vote HERE - find our category in the North East section, Arts Champion of the Year (North East) and then ‘Platform's Free Festivals'.

A big thank you to everyone who took part and came along - and to our generous supporters and funders: The National Lottery Community Fund,  Glasgow Life, Creative Scotland, Glasgow Kelvin College, Milnbank Housing Association and Glasgow City Council Local Area Planning Committees (for the North East, Bailieston, Calton, East Centre, Dennistoun, Shettleston, Springburn/Robroyston wards).

Thank you!

This October school holiday, there's lots going on at Platform! Join us for yummy free food and creative activities - free swims and games and lego in the library from Glasgow Life.

Running from  Monday 14 Oct to Friday 18 Oct, children and their families can come to the Platform Café to sit in and enjoy a free breakfast & lunch. Drop in - no need to book and food is offered on a first come, first served basis. Parents/carers to stay with their children. Breafast us se

We’ll have a selection of healthy, filling and delicious food and treats on offer – with vegan and gluten free options. 

MORNING ACTIVITIES | 9.30AM - 10.30AM | BREAKFAST SERVED FROM 9.30AM

Mon 14 October → Arts, crafts & toys with Rebecca Fraser

Tue 15  October → Yoga fun with Anna

Wed 16 October  → Arts, crafts & toys with Rebecca Fraser

Thu 17 October → Sports & games with Glasgow Life

Fri 18 October  →  Street Dance warm up

AFTERNOON ACTIVITIES | 11AM - 12.30PM | FOLLOWED BY LUNCH FROM 12.30PM - 2.30PM

Mon 14  Oct → Treasure Island workshop 

Tue 15  Oct → Nature Walk with Seven Lochs

Wed 16 Oct → Movie Screening: Inside Out 2

Thu 17 Oct→ Spooky Workshop or Nature Walk

Fri 18 Oct→ Street Dance workshop

Every day, until 2.30pm, we will have free colouring sheets and pens to get creative with, as well as choice of board games to play - just drop in and get started! For film screenings and workshops, attendees to the food programme can sign up to these on the day - please note spaces are subject to availability.

The Bridge Library is open and, with a cosy children's corner with rugs and couches, it's a great place to hang out and browse the wide collection of children's books. There are games and Lego available each day. 

There are free swims in The Bridge swimming pool - visit the Glasgow Life website to book or speak to a member of staff when in the building.

There's also free Wi-Fi, the building is fully accessible and it's a great place to relax and spend some time with your friends/family. 

For further details or if you have any questions, please contact info@platform-online.co.uk

We’ve welcomed thousands of local families over the last few years to the food programme and are proud to offer this service to the local community.

Thank you to Glasgow City Council Children’s Holiday Food and Activity Programme for funding.

This September we welcome Glasgow based artists Beth Shapeero and Fraser Taylor of Two-Step, who bring Scribbling/Scrabbling to Platform, Easterhouse  – a new exhibition focusing on a site-specific painting, and the largest Two-Step work to date. The exhibition runs Sat 21 Sep 2024 until Sat 11 Jan 2025 - opening event is 2pm - 4pm on Sat 21 Sep - everyone is welcome, entry is free and light refreshments will be served. Drop in, no need to book.

Inspired by the sheer scale of the exhibition wall at Platform, Beth and Fraser, who have been working collaboratively since 2018, have created a giant canvas artwork measuring 18 metres wide by 5 metres high , which will be displayed alongside a selection of smaller archive pieces and monotypes. The archive is a shortlist of hundreds of drawings the duo shared during lockdown in 2020 when they couldn’t meet up, some of which have been reimagined in scale into a giant architectural work using painting and mark making techniques.

The process of creating the piece has involved the canvas being laid out on the floor of Beth’s expansive studio in Maxim Park, Motherwell, and due to size, will not be fully realised until it is installed vertically at Platform. This will be the first time that the artists will see the work in its intended orientation, and with the complexity of the install means no changes can be made, instilling a sense of trust in each other’s contribution. 

Beth said: “Two-Step had been exploring the concept of exhibiting at Platform for some time and the opportunity to stage a work on the large-scale exhibition wall allowed us to create something that would not be possible to achieve in most locations. When we first floated the idea of a colossal painting as we looked at the exhibition wall, it really was too thrilling to resist - and so we began planning it for production and we become more comfortable with the idea of rough edges. In fact, as some parts get rougher, more collaged, and less perfect, it feels like it’s growing into something that’s a part of us — patched up, a bit messy. 

"We reviewed our ‘lockdown’ drawings—A4 sheets we passed back and forth between us (we must have 500-600 of them)—and selected a few to bring into Platform, imagining how these small, scruffy drawings could transform into something architectural in scale. Fraser had picked this blue and black drawing with bold, thick, curved blue lines -like giant mechanical teeth, roughly held together by some strong black lines. I remember him telling me a couple of years ago about a bridge shape he had in mind, something he saw on a walk that stayed with him, this weird line that he kept drawing.

"The drawings I’m talking about—our lockdown drawings—are created through a collaborative process. We pass them back and forth in a big envelope, each adding something until we decide they’re finished. In this particular drawing, I think I added the smudgy marks, and then Fraser added the lines. Then he probably handed it back to me, and I decided it was done. As Two-Step, working collaboratively, it doesn’t really matter who made what mark. There’s an act of letting go, of moving from ‘that’s mine’ to ‘that’s ours.’ It’s like a marriage—the little bits of Fraser and Beth in the work combine to create something with a bit of magic in it. That magic comes from letting go of our egos—of needing the work to look like mine or feel like mine. It’s about making space for wildness, for the unknown and the unexpected.

"It’s a powerful drawing—almost aggressive, with bluish smudges in the background. The curves feel important because they will interact with the architecture of the space, the very linear structure, turning the entire space into one giant 3D drawing.

"We started painting, and it was fun—physically demanding because of the scale, but fun. We tested some marks on a big piece of test canvas, watering down blues and using an old fabric painting scrunched up as a massive sponge. I crawled around the canvas, making marks while Fraser directed me from above, overseeing the overall composition. I followed my instincts, dragging the sponge, not really seeing how it looked. And that was almost better—I was in it, just moving. It felt more like a performance than measured painting, with Fraser choreographing but letting me find my rhythm and movement."

Fraser added: ‘The artwork celebrates the joy of colour, mark making and an insight into our creative language and friendship. We are committed to challenging scale and we enjoyed translating our small drawings into architectural mounted works.

“The question of how we do this motivates us and it prompts a dialogue which considers everything from the tools we will use to scale-up our marks to the logistics of how the completed work will be installed.’  

Margaret McCormick, Arts & Communities Lead at Platform said: “We are excited to host an exhibition of Beth and Fraser’s drawings and paintings, and a new work in response to the architecture of The Bridge building, here in Easterhouse. Their use of colour, line, shape and mark making brings a lot of joy and playfulness - it also brings an insight into how they create works together.

“I have admired their collaboration for some time - a mutual love of drawing, painting and making -  and something that reflects what we do here at Platform; hosting opportunities for people to come together to have fun, make, get creative and be inspired.”

The exhibition is free admission and is on at Platform from Sat 21 Sep 2024 until Fri 10 Jan 2025. Exhibition opening times: Mon 10am–5pm, Tues 10am–8pm, Wed 10am–5pm, Thu 10am–8pm, Fri 10am–5pm, Sat 10am–5pm, closed Sundays. More details here.

Platform's Thursday Night Drama group took to the stage as part of the annual The Bridge Family Festival Day 2024. Audiences watched from as the group made use of every corner of the Amphitheatre at The Bridge and delivered their thought provoking performance.  

Thursday Night Drama is a support place for people aged 16yrs + who have an interest in performance and wish to continue developing their skills and confidence. Participants will collaborate with one another and two practicing theatre makers to develop a rich experience in all aspects of devised theatre. Members have the opportunity to explore their own ideas on a weekly basis, where the focus will be on developing their skill set in a supportive, creative and fun working environment.

We also host Monday Night Drama workshops for those aged 8 - 16 years old. Both of  drama groups are running weekly from now until w/c 16 Dec 2024 and operate on a Pay-What-You-Like basis. No previous experience is required.

Images: Iain McLean

Platform were delighted to work in partnership with Celtic FC Foundation earlier this summer to programme and deliver a series of music, dance, visual art and performance as part of their Summer Community Games project.

Over the 6 weeks of the school summer holiday, their dedicated space at Celtic Park welcomed over 60 young people every day, who were served healthy free breakfasts and lunches alongside sports and arts activity. The programme aims to support the children attending to develop confidence, communication and teamwork skills.

We were delighted to offer creative workshops throughout the programme including music sessions led by Hannah Lee and Rachel Wilson - some great pieces were created through percussion and song. Artists Pearl Kinnear, Alice Dansey-Wright and Celie Bryne hosted several expressive sessions that explored drawing, painting and sculpture, including handmade books and contributing to a large map of the local neighbourhood of Parkhead.

Artists delivered a mix of drama workshops that involved role play, games and performance including Sally Charleton, Bishop May Down, Sean McGarvey and Jack Tully, who all helped the young people enjoy playful and creative sessions!

Thank you to everyone at Celtic FC Foundation, artists and everyone who attended.

As we wrap up our free holiday food and activities programme, we're delighted to have provided a varied range of activities, breakfasts and lunches to families across Easterhouse. 

Throughout the programme, we served thousands of meals and offered 24 creative activities over 6 weeks of the summer holiday, ranging from arts and crafts to sports and educational events. As a last day hurrah,  performance artists The Refs joined us to turn our space into one big game where participants had to compete in games and challenges to be crowned MVP! 

One family said they had “discovered good activities and classes in [their] area”, emphasising that it was “lovely to see lots of people having fun”. One festival regular spoke of the impact of our Alexandra Park Festival Day, sharing:

 “[I] love when this festival comes around. It's great to see the amount of people who support this event. It brings the community together”. 

We could not have achieved this success without the dedication and hard work of our volunteers, staff, hosts and performers - thank you. We also extend our gratitude to our funders, including Glasgow City Council's Holiday Food and Activity Programme,

Looking ahead, we are excited to continue our mission to offer a year-round programme of cutting-edge performance, music, visual arts and participation. This includes the resumption of our taking part activities, including music classes, drama workshops and social meet-ups, as well as our scheduled exhibitions and events. We invite you to share your experiences and feedback, and stay connected with us, via our Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. 

Thank you for your continued support, and we hope to see you at Platform soon. You can find out all we have on by visiting our ‘what’s on' page - there's something for all ages, abilities and interests.

The Intergenerational Mentoring Network worked in partnership with FARE Scotland and Oakwood Primary to deliver after-school Art Sessions with families.

We have a range of works on display, showcasing the new skills picked up through the sessions delivered by Matt Gillies (Art & Design Lecturer/Community Educator) and facilitated by Rosemary Fullerton (FARE Scotland) and Dr Katie Hunter (IMN). These include photomontages, character design and stories, gel printing and marbling.

Sessions were designed to encourage families to socialise, have fun with art and literacy, and nurture creative thinking and self-expression. A strong educational component was incorporated using imagery, poetry and stories to spark imagination and promote low-stakes literacy engagement.

Across 8 sessions, families were introduced to various art media and techniques including mark making, marbling, printmaking, painting, typography and clay-modelling. The sessions also had a visit from author Ewain Black who read from his books.

A special thanks to our funders Youth Link Scotland for making this project possible.

Visit us at Platform to see these amazing creations for yourself!

What brilliant turnout for our Alexandra Park Festival and The Bridge Family Festival Day 2024!  Both festivals were jam packed full of free activities and had free entry.

“Love when this festival comes around. It's great to see the amount of people who support this event. [It] brings the community together!”

The crowds came out in force for the live wrestling, inflatables, rides, stalls, BMX & Golf demos, face painting & balloon modelling, free art workshops and wide range of performances at Alexandra Park Festival Day and it was fantastic to see the event so busy once again.

The Bridge Family Festival was a roaring success the following weekend, with the sun also out in force on our stalls, sports tasters, free face painting, balloon modelling, caricaturist,  rides/inflatables and more. That's not to mention an installation from Soundplay Projects, folk music taster sessions from our Taking Part fiddle tutor Celine, and the roller disco which took over the Platform auditorium.

“It's been amazing, I love everything. I am glad Iive in Easterhouse and have this on my doorstep".

A big thank you to everyone who took part and came along - and to our generous supporters and funders: The National Lottery Community Fund,  Glasgow Life, Creative Scotland, Glasgow Kelvin College, Milnbank Housing Association and Glasgow City Council Local Area Planning Committees (for the North East, Bailieston, Calton, East Centre, Dennistoun, Shettleston, Springburn/Robroyston wards).

Images courtesy of Iain McLean.

We're delighted to have been part of a Lux Scotland project of moving image works by young people, commissioned as part of Now & Next, 2019-22. 

The online screening is available to view during July and August 2024. Check it out HERE.

Now & Next was a talent development scheme run by Lux Scotland in partnership with BBC Arts and Screen Scotland. The scheme ran between 2019-22 and focused on nurturing and showcasing emerging creative voices. Now & Next offered artists working in a wide range of disciplines across Scotland the opportunity to create audio and audio-visual commissions for BBC platforms.

Three commissions from each round of Now & Next were created by young people working with Platform. In 2019-20 this was led by artist Henry Coombes, with additional mentorship from artists Margaret Salmon and Duncan Marquiss, and in 2020-21 it was led by artist Juliana Capes, with additional mentorship from artists Sarah Forrest and Ashanti Harris, with technical and production support from Jen Martin.

The young people who participated in Now & Next created collaborative, experimental and personal work that engaged with ideas ranging from a paranormal talk show and loneliness on the moon, to interpretations of traumatic past experiences. Many of the works created explore the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health and relationships, presenting unique perspectives and approaches to understanding the experiences of young people through isolation and its aftermath.

Don't forget to give them a watch HERE.

Our next Taking Part block starts back w/c 26 August with a varied line up of classes and workshops on offer.  See the full programme in our What's On 2024 brochure here or pick up a copy at Platform.

Sessions are relaxed and welcoming and are led by artists / professional tutors. No previous experience is required and taster sessions are also available if you wish to try a class first (see class listings for details).

Classes are offered on a Pay-What-You-Like basis, where you decide what you'd like to donate. As a guide, we recommend a payment of £5 per class. You can pay for a full block up front or pay weekly - both online or at the class itself in cash (via our donations can) or by card.  

If a class is showing as fully booked please email tickets@platform-online.co.uk to be added to the mailing list - often spaces come up.

MUSIC

Platform Singers (16 years+) | Fridays | 2.30pm - 4pm

Run by opera singer and choir leader Rachel Hynes, Platform Singers is a relaxed, welcoming group and no singing experience is needed. We start off each session with a chat & cuppa at 2.30pm before moving onto singing. If you just want to sing then join us at 3pm. As well as being social and fun, there are lots of health benefits to singing - you can find out more details here.

Guitar & Fiddle Lessons (adults & children age 8yrs+)  | Tuesdays  | from 5pm

Our Guitar and Fiddle lessons are held as group sessions and are led by professional musicians, who bring lots of experience, talent and expertise to each class. Super friendly, they are open to all ages from 5yrs+ and all levels of experience. More details for Guitar lessons here and details for Fiddle here.

Drum Lessons | (adults & children age 8yrs+) | Mondays & Thursdays  | from 4.30pm

One-to-one sessions led by experienced tutors -  super welcoming and open to everyone age 8yrs and over, at any level of experience. More details here.

M3 | Make Music Move  | Saturdays | from 1pm

Led by Paragon, M3 | Make Music Move is an inclusive dance and music programme for teenagers with additional support needs. The aim is to encourage movement, creativity and more importantly make friends and have fun! More details here.

VISUAL ART

Clack and Yak Knitting Group (16yrs+) | Mondays  |  11am - 1pm

Platform’s  Clack and Yak knitting group meet in the Platform Cafe  for a chat and a cuppa whilst knitting, sewing or crocheting. Friendly and informal, beginners, improvers or seasoned knitters alike are all welcome. Wool, needles and patterns provided. More information here.

Nu Gen Art + Design (11yrs +) | Tuesdays |  5pm - 6.30pm

Nu Gen is a fun, weekly art group that is artist led and challenges teenagers to make artwork that represents their interests, exploring identity and what it is to be an artist. If you like drawing, painting or sculpture, are studying art at school or fancy trying something new - then Nu Gen is for you! Full details here.

Art Factory (16yrs+) | Tuesdays  | 1pm & 2.45pm

A relaxed, informal space for adults to get creative and inspired with activities and advice on various art techniques. A great way to get involved in a whole host of different types of art activities. More details here.

Saturday Art Club (5 - 11yrs) | Saturdays | 11am - 12pm & 1 - 2pm

An informal art class aimed at primary school age children, offering a chance to be playful with materials and create artworks to take home. Artist led and a fun way to spend a Saturday! There are two sessions running due to demand for spaces. More info here.

MULTI-ARTFORM

Play Cafe (0-5yrs) | Saturdays | 11.15am - 12.15pm

Bring your wee ones along and enjoy some creative, sensory activities. Each week is different -  join us for theatre, dance, music and art and craft activities for babies and toddlers, all led by Platform’s associate artists. It doesn’t matter if you are a parent, grandparent, carer, auntie or uncle - everyone is welcome. Healthy drinks and snacks provided.  More details here.

Social Roots (all ages)  | Wednesdays | 10am - 12noon | Free

Join us on Wednesday mornings at the Platform Cafe Bar for Social Roots!  It's a great way to find out what community groups are doing in the area and what events and activities are taking place.Everyone is welcome - drop in between 10am - 12noon for a chat and a free cuppa. 

PERFORMANCE

Monday Night Drama (8 – 16 years) | Mondays  | 5.30pm - 7pm

Monday Night Drama is a fun, weekly drama workshop for those age 8 -16 years old who are interested in performance, fun and creativity! The workshops are artist led and are designed to develop skills and confidence and meet new people. The class is split into 2 groups - 8-11yrs and 12-16yrs. More details here.

Thursday Night Drama (16yrs+) | Thursdays |  6pm - 8pm

Thursday Night Drama is a place for adults age 16yrs+ who have an interest in performance. The company is open to members of all abilities and no previous experience required. It is a friendly, supportive space for new and emerging performers and performance artists to continue developing their skills and confidence as they move from full-time education and youth theatre into the creative industries and other sectors of the professional world. More details here.

We are delighted to be hosting two family friendly festivals in the east end of Glasgow this July – The Alexandra Park Festival Day in Alexandra Park, Dennistoun on Saturday 20 July and The Bridge Family Festival at The Bridge, Easterhouse, on Saturday 27 July.

A very big thank you to our partners, supporters and funders for helping us put on the festivals - we are grateful to receive their support. As well a generous grant from the National Lottery Community Fund for The Bridge Family Festival, other financial support to deliver the events comes from Glasgow City Council Local Area Planning Committees (for the North East, Bailieston, Calton, East Centre, Dennistoun, Shettleston, Springburn/Robroyston wards), Creative Scotland and Milnbank Housing Association. Funding and support enables us to put on the festivals, offering events packed with exciting activities, entertainment and opportunities for everyone to come together and have fun.

Matt Addicott, Artistic Director for Platform, who are organising both festivals said: “We're excited that it’s summer festival time once again and to support two family-friendly festival days in North East Glasgow. These festivals have been running for a number of years and we welcome thousands of families along each year”.

“All activities are free or subsidised to keep costs low and entry itself is free. The popular live wrestling show from Glasgow based Iron Girders Gym is back at Alexandra Park Festival Day and one of the highlights at The Bridge festival is a free roller disco – we supply the skates, so just bring yourself!”.

“Both festivals will have live performances, rides for children, art activities and lots of community groups and organisations will be hosting stalls too.  There will also be free face painting, sports activities and food and drinks too – there really is something for everyone and both festivals are great days out”.  

Mark your calendars for 12 noon - 4pm on the 20th July for Alexandra Park and the 27th July 2024 at The Bridge for a fun-filled day. Keep an eye on our social media channels @platformglasgow for more information about activities on the day. See you there!

Read more here: https://www.platform-online.co.uk/whats-on/event/1035 

Print Clan x Art Factory is an exhibition of new work created by members of Platform's Art Factory group, as part of Print Club, which ran during weekly sessions led by Print Clan.

Made up of over 17 core attendees, the Art Factory group worked together to create the exhibition, with it being the first time they had screen-printed at scale.

The exhibition is focused around three cloth panels featuring work from all involved and were created over the course of  one year.

We caught up with co-founder of Print Clan, Arianna Mele, about the exhibition:

“The exhibition showcases an array of works crafted by the participants over the past year, a period during which Print Clan has effectively transformed the Art Factory group's classroom into a compact textile printing studio on a weekly basis. 

“This display is a testament to the remarkable accomplishments that can arise from a shared passion. It illustrates the collective journey of individuals with love for art, meeting up to play with their creative sides and just enjoy each other's company.”

“The participants have been diving into the world of colour and shapes, using their sketchbooks to evolve their drawings into screen-prints. The three panels on display feature work from everyone involved. 

“Two of these are a patchwork of pieces stitched into a quilt and a flowing draped panel. The third, a larger piece, represents the pinnacle of a shared journey, with everyone pitching in to create it over the last three months.”

Come and see it over the summer!

Print Clan is Glasgow’s only open access textile printing studio. They opened in 2018 in the Southside of Glasgow, before moving to their current studio on the city’s historic High Street in Summer 2019.

Art Factory meet weekly on Tuesdays at Platform - read more about the group here.

The Print Clan X Art Factory exhibition runs until Sat 7 September and entre is free. 10am – 5pm, Monday to Saturday.

Last Friday we hosted Full House Friday Social in the Studio Theatre - a free event with information on local services and a chance to do some screen printing with Print Clan.

Following our Full House Bingo event at 12noon the group had a spot of lunch and then started creating designs for screen printing tote bags to take home. Guided by the artists, the designs were then transferred onto the bags through screen printing. 

The group also had a chance to contribute thoughts and ideas to a community banner. With so much going on in Easterhouse and the local area, it was a great opportunity for attendees to chat and hear more about volunteering at local allotments, and other activities.

It was a great afternoon and an ideal way to mark the last Full House Friday Bingo and welcome lots of new faces to the event.

This event was part of Refugee Festival Scotland 2024.
 

The SoulsINQUEST exhibition by INQUEST closes this Saturday 29 June at Platform - and is well worth a visit if you haven't managed along yet.

We're proud to have hosted such a powerful, thought provoking and important exhibition and associated series of events, workshops and screenings throughout June as part of Glasgow International Festival 2024, welcoming visitors, panel discussion members, groups and participants to our building.

We screened the The UK is Not Innocent - a 45-minute documentary film made by Rainbow Collective as part of INQUEST’s 40 Years heritage project - which was followed by a Q&A exploring the role of visual arts in campaigns for social and racial justice. The Q&A was chaired by Naomi Oppenheim (INQUEST) and  featured Rachel Hamada from Take One Action, photographer Sarah Booker , Simon Israel and Marcia Rigg who is a family campaigner and INQUEST Trustee. There was a strong turn out for the panel discission event with Lawyer Aamer Anwar, Sarah Armstrong from Scottish Centre for Crime and Justice Research / Glasgow University), Kadi Johnson who is the sister of Sheku Bayoh and INQUEST director Deborah Coles, who explained he current state of play, the impact of social and racial injustice and the power of resistance through the courts, parliament, media, universities and the importance of working alongside families bereaved by state violence.

We were delighted to host the Coalition Against Punishment and a group from Forum for Prison Abolition from Denmark, where Deborah Coles offered further insight into the project and the work they do.

It was also wonderful to receive a visit from Sisco where the group had a chance to meet photographer  Sarah Booker and some families involved in the project. The group feature in Beyond the Forbidden Gate, project by Joey Simons and Glasgow Sculpture Studios Learning + Engagement Programme as part of Glasgow International Festival.

There were also guided tours with Sarah Booker and an Abolitionist Futures zine making workshop with Glasgow Prisoner Solidarity which took place as part of the programme of events.

Linda Allan, family campaigner and mother of Katie who featured in the exhibition, summed up  the project in a powerful speech: “SoulsINQUEST is a novel and unique blend of the loved ones we’ve lost and the steely determination of some of the strongest families I have ever met, portrayed in some very special images. This exhibition is about the strength of individuals who are ‘bearing the unbearable’.

"It is about loss and grief but also about love and compassion and how families who “fully inhabit their grief” become forces of nature with the courage to publicly mourn and honour their loss. We have fought hard for almost 6 years seeking justice for Katie’s death and trying always to remember 16 year old William Lindsay."Until now, we have mostly, kept our personal grief separate from our campaigning, so sacred was that space. Participation in Souls INQUEST, meeting other families and sharing what only they can know has taught me that both are not necessarily parallel, but rather, interconnected – a double helix found in DNA.” [Lifted from INQUEST social media].

Starting July 2024, we are hosting a packed programme of free food, fun and creative activities! There are also lots of activities happening in The Bridge - free swims and free library activities. See below for more information!

Running Tuesday to Fridays over the school summer holidays, from Tuesday 2nd July until Friday 9 August 2024, between 9.30am - 2.30pm, we’re inviting children and their families to drop into the Platform Café to sit in and enjoy a free breakfast & lunch.  Drop in - no need to book and food is offered on a first come, first served basis whilst stocks last. Please note the club doesn't run on Mondays or weekends.

We’ll have a selection of healthy, filling and delicious food on offer – with vegan and gluten free options. There will be a variety of different foods each week and each day and will include things like cereals, toast, pancakes & hot morning rolls for breakfast along with hotdogs, cheeseburgers, wrap, sandwiches and paninis for lunch. Fresh fruit will be available daily and there will be snacks including jelly, yoghurts, cheese strings and some treats such as cakes and ice creams. Food offerings will change daily and are subject to availability.

Breakfast served → 9.30am – 11.30am        

Activities → 11am - 2.30pm

Lunch served → 12noon – 2.30pm  

Free family activities run from 11am until 2.30pm – these are aimed at those age 5 - 11yrs but are suitable for all ages. Join us for film screenings, art / performance workshops and every day, until 2.30pm, we will have free colouring sheets and pens to get creative with, as well as choice of board games to play - just drop in and get started! For film screenings, attendees to the food programme can sign up to these on the day - please note these have a limited capacity and spaces are subject to availability.

W/C 29 JULY

Tue 30 → create a wearable sculpture with artist David Sherry

Wed 31   → Sprog Rock workshop

Thu 1 → Pond dipping at Seven Lochs Wetland Park - be prepared to get splashed as we try to find some of Blairtummock's watery residents!

Fri 2 → Sprog Rock Performance

+

W/C 5 AUGUST

Tue 6 → Drawing / colouring & tabletop games

Wed 7   → Join artist Cara Rooney on National Play Day

Thu 8 → Bishop Loch Wander – enjoy a group walk in the woods to see what we can spot - there will be firepits & marshmallow toasting too!

Fri 9 → Join performers The Refs – who are searching for the most valuable player and are eager to find YOU!

The Bridge Library is open Monday to Saturdays and with a cosy children's corner with rugs and couches, it's a great place to hang out and browse the wide collection of children's books. The library is running a Summer Reading Challenge ‘ Marvellous Makers’, Storytime & Bookbug sessions, art club & activities and games and Lego available each day. Pop into the library to get all the details.

There are free swims in The Bridge swimming pool - visit the Glasgow Life website to book or speak to a member of staff when in the building.

There's also free Wi-Fi, the building is fully accessible and it's a great place to relax and spend some time with your friends/family. 

For further details or if you have any questions, please contact info@platform-online.co.uk

We’ve welcomed thousands of local families over the last few years to the food programme and are proud to offer this service to the local community. Thank you to Glasgow City Council Children’s Holiday Food and Activity Programme for funding.

Images: Euan Robertson

As well as hosting the SoulsINQUEST exhibition with INQUEST until Sat 29 June 2024 we are running a series of free events in connection with the exhibition at part of Glasgow International Festival of Contemporary Art:

- Blueprint Workshop on Fri 14 June: Blueprint Workshop is a creative session for adults with experience or interested in the criminal justice system. Artist Richie Cumming has developed this workshop to invite people to creatively respond to the question: How can we make the Criminal Justice System Better? All materials provided. This workshop is delivered in partnership with Vox Liminis. 

- Film screening on 19 June: The UK is Not Innocent is a 45-minute documentary film made by Rainbow Collective as part of INQUEST’s 40 Years heritage project. Following the screening, there will be a Q&A exploring the role of visual arts in campaigns for social and racial justice. Q&A will be chaired by Naomi Oppenheim (INQUEST) and will feature Rachel Hamada (Take One Action), Sarah Booker, Simon Israel and Marcia Rigg (Family campaigner and INQUEST Trustee).

- Panel discussion on 19 June featuring: Aamer Anwar (Lawyer), Kadi Johnston (Sister of Sheku Bayoh), Sarah Armstrong (Scottish Centre for Crime and Justice Research / Glasgow University), Deborah Coles (Director, INQUEST). The panel discussion event that will ask the question: Why do deaths in custody matter in Scotland? 

- Guided exhibition tours on 20 June: join an informal tour of the exhibition, offering further insight into the project, artworks on display and archive materials that is presented. There is also a free Zine making workshop in partnership with Glasgow Prisoner Solidarity.

Book your free tickets on our website via the links above.

SoulsINQUEST is a powerful, moving new exhibition which uses photography and writing as a lens onto state violence, death, grief, and resistance. Read more here.

Part of Glasgow International Open Programme.

Image credit: Sarah Booker

We like to think of Saturdays at Platform as super Saturdays as we have Play Cafe and Saturday Art Club for babies, toddlers and primary age school children taking place!

Play Cafe is for age 0-5yrs (11.15am - 12.15pm) and Saturday Art Club is for age 5-11yrs  (11am - 12noon + 1pm - 2pm classes) and all classes are offered on a Pay-What-You-Like basis where you decide what to pay (recommended donation is £5 per class).

Play Cafe - bring your wee ones along and enjoy some creative activities. Each week is different - join us for theatre, dance, music and art and craft activities for babies and toddlers, all led by Platform’s associate artists. It doesn’t matter if you are a parent, grandparent, carer, auntie or uncle - everyone is welcome. Free healthy drinks and snacks provided.

Saturday Art Club - an informal art class aimed at primary school age children, offering a chance to be playful with materials and create artworks to take home. Artist led and a fun way to spend a Saturday! There are two sessions running due to demand for spaces.

The Platform Cafe Bar is open until 3pm and offers a well priced menu of breakfast, lunch and snacks - and with The Bridge Library open until 5pm, you can hang out in the cosy children's section which with couches and carpets, is the ideal space to hang out. 

Our building is fully accessible, we have a large car park with free parking.

We were proud to host the opening of SoulsINQUEST at Platform earlier this month, a new photography exhibition instigated and commissioned by the charity INQUEST, working with photographer Sarah Booker and 18 families.

The opening was a welcome opportunity to hear from INQUEST and meet a number of the families featured in the exhibition who offered further insight into the support received from INQUEST and the opportunity the exhibition brings.

SoulsINQUEST uses photography, text and archive as a lens onto state violence, death, grief and resistance. The exhibition is an embodiment of family resistance that refuses to be silenced, misrepresented or forgotten.

Sarah Booker, SoulsINQUEST photographer who collaborated with the families, said: “Through photography and text, seventeen families have wrestled with symbols. Symbols which honour their loved ones, killed by institutions that failed to protect them. Symbols which are conduits and connectors between those who have passed and those who loved them dearly.  Collectively, 18 families from different backgrounds have engaged in workshops, endless Zoom calls, WhatsApps and face to face discussions. They have worked together to create their way through unimaginable pain and to confront the truths that the authorities need to keep buried.”

Linda Allan, family campaigner and mother of late daughter Katie who' s story is featured in the exhibition, spoke at the event with some powerful words: “SoulsINQUEST is a novel and unique blend of the loved ones we’ve lost and the steely determination of some of the strongest families I have ever met, portrayed in some very special images. This exhibition is about the strength of individuals who are ‘bearing the unbearable’.

Deborah Coles, Director of INQUEST, said: “Too often families bereaved by deaths in state custody and care face lifelong struggles against indifference, denial and impunity. Never have these issues come under such scrutiny in Scotland as at present. SoulsINQUEST is a creative response which takes a different perspective."It is a form of art as activism and resistance. It is also a celebration of the power of bereaved people in the face of injustice. Love and grief are at the centre. Scotland has a long tradition of activism and the arts, and it is therefore fitting to have this exhibition here. The exhibition poses a challenge to all those who view it: to be moved as they bear witness to each story, and to be inspired to stand with these families in their (our) continued struggles for truth, justice, accountability and societal change.”

A series of associated events - film screening, Q&A, guided tour & creative workshop - will take place in June, to offer the opportunity to further explore themes raised in the exhibition. As well as taking in the exhibition, there is a range of merchandise for sale including Black Lodge Press T-shirts, tops, tote bags, books and pins. All profits directly fund INQUEST’s work with families bereaved by state related deaths.

Part of Glasgow International Open Programme 2024.

Open at Platform Monday to Saturdays, 10am - 5pm, until 29 June, 2024. Free admission.

Read more about the exhibition and events series here.

 

The wonderful Janice from our Clack & Yak knitting group took up a recent challenge to create knitted breasts to help student midwives learn to teach breastfeeding.

Sheona Jenkinson, Midwifery Lecturer from University of West of Scotland, approached our knitting group with the request - and so far over 40 woolly breasts have been knitted for Sheona and the team at the university.

They look fantastic - well done Janice!

Interested in knitting? Read more about the Clack & Yak group here.

A new free, fun- filled activity trail created by children for children and their families has been launched at Blairtummock Park in Easterhouse.

Packed with multi-sensory activities, storytelling and games, the trail guides and encourages children to explore the different habitats in the park and the animals that live there. Beautifully illustrated by commissioned Scottish artist, Cara Rooney, the trail was co-created by local children over a series of workshops focusing on sharing with others the importance of the greenspace for people and wildlife as well as the small steps we can all take to look after the park. 

The project was supported by National Lottery Heritage Fund and commissioned through the Blairtummock and Rogerfield Partnership. Developed by Seven Lochs Project, Platform and The Pavillion, it is part of a wider initiative to connect people with their greenspaces. 

The activity trail is available to download online at www.sevenlochs.org or by using the QR code found on the posts in Blairtummock Park. The activities are designed to use imagination and found materials but hard copies of the guide are available to pick up from Platform or digitally here.

Blairtummock Park can be accessed via Baldinnie Road (G34 9EE), adjacent to The Bridge. 

Debbie McMahon of BEE (Brighter East End) said: “The children and young people have loved being involved in this project from the start- from initially exploring the area and taking part in workshops with Cara, to seeing their ideas and designs come to life in the Nature Trail Guide booklet. They couldn't wait to show off the guides to their parents, telling them how they had helped to make it. We have already had groups over to Blairtummock Park to start using this brilliant asset, and we are excited to use it more over the summer and beyond”.

Cllr Ruairi Kelly, Chair of the Seven Lochs Partnership and City Convener for Neighbourhood Services and Assets said ‘We want the Seven Lochs Wetland Park to a great place for people to discover the nature on their doorstep. Cara worked with kids from the local community to develop the Blairtummock Trail – which we hope will help others learn about the neighbourhood nature that they might meet on a walk round the park’.

‘As Chair of the Blairtummock and Rogerfield partnership I am absolutely delighted to be involved in this exciting piece of work. Huge thanks to Lindsay Farquharson from Seven Lochs and Matt Addicott from Platform for providing the resources and creative input on behalf of the partnership. We hope that this is the start of a journey which will turn this area into an exciting asset for the children and families in the local community.’  said Gerry Baldwin, Chair of Blairtummock and Rogerfield Partnership and CEO of FUSE & Pavillion.

Matt Addicott – Artistic Director, Platform, added: ‘We have really enjoyed working as part of the Blairtummock & Rogerfield Partnership and contributing to this project. Cara has worked closely with children and young people, listening to their ideas and imaginations. They have created a brilliant resource and we are excited to share and celebrate what they have made together. We hope people will head along, grab a guide and get active!”.

READ ALL ABOUT IT IN THE GLASGOW TIMES here!

Images: Iain McLean

The Platform Studio Theatre was awash with nature at the most recent Full House Friday's Bingo event which had teamed up with our weekly Social Roots session for some gorgeous, sensory arts and crafts.

Kicking off with a few games of bingo and a spot of lunch as part of Full House Fridays, Angela Smith, Community Outreach Advisor, from the Royal Horticultural Society Scotland then took over,  with demos, tips and mini workshops focusing on array of nature inspired activities. The group made spring floral wreaths, potted and planted seeds, created Kokedama's for hanging on a Friendship Tree - with everyone taking their creations home after the session had finished.

Angela said: “It's all about connecting with nature - taking an hour out to switch off, focus on wellbeing and yourself - and enjoy the new season and all the sensory delights that Spring brings”.

One of the participants added: “This is brilliant and I've really enjoyed making my wreath, learning something new and getting out of the house”.

Read more about the Royal Horticultural Society and find out more about how to get involved with Social Roots and Full House Friday's Bingo.

Social Roots is run in association with Blairtummock and Rogerfield Partnership and Glasgow Health and Social Care Partnership.

We are delighted to announce our full 2024 season exhibitions and performances, running until December 2024. This runs alongside our Taking Part programme (dates announced until the end of the year) which is packed with lots of classes and workshops for all ages, and offered on a Pay-What-You-Like basis.

Pick up a copy of our new What's On 2024 guide at Platform or read the digital copy HERE.

Project Ability's Reconnect Paint Show. ReConnect artists from Project Ability having been preparing for months in preparation for this new painting exhibition. 

Taking full advantage of the large scale exhibition wall, paintings created are large in scale compared to what the artists normally have the opportunity to make. Each artist displays their own style, painting techniques and explore their own themes. More info here.

New theatre Ragnarock comes to Platform in March -  a bold, haunting and multisensory theatrical world, populated by scores of hand-crafted clay figures and an atmospheric immersive soundtrack. 

From multi-award-winning Tortoise in a Nutshell, in co-production with Firgurteatret I Nordland (Nordland Visual Theatre) and in association with Macrobert Arts Centre, this enthralling new production fuses forms to stunning effect, blending human performance, puppetry and hand-crafted live animation in their most ambitious production to date. More information here.

In April, Independent Arts Projects in Association with the National Theatre of Scotland bring us Shō and the Demons of the Deep for ages 8yrs+. A visual-adventure story about overcoming fear, climate crisis and how the actions of one generation can affect the next, the show is Inspired by the book by Annouchka Gravel Galouchko. More details here.

In May, a new exhibition SoulsINQUEST opens at Platform in May - a powerful photography exhibition created with 17 families who have lost a loved one due to state violence and institutional neglect. A rare moment to experience their perspective and their experiences of grief. More information here. In June a series of free events will also take place as part of Glasgow International Festival of Contemporary Art 2024, Scotland's biennial festival of contemporary art. See our website for full details.

Frozen Light returns to Platform with The Bar at the Edge of Time. Created for audiences with profound and multiple learning disabilities (PMLD), The Bar at the Edge of Time waits only for you, so what are you waiting for? Leave the hours, minutes, and seconds behind, step across the threshold and meet the bar's maestro mixologists, crooners, and hosts. 

But a mystery lies at the heart of this place, a mystery hidden even from them. One that can only be solved when we spend our time together. More details here.

May continues to be a busy month, as younger audiences age 3-6yrs we host So Far So Good - presented by SUPERFAN and commissioned by Imaginate in partnership with Aberdeen Performing Arts in association with Platform .An adventurous new contemporary circus show, three performers use daring acrobatics to explore flying, falling, steep places, precipices and the sharp rocks you come across on the way up. A show for anyone who has ever asked “Are we there yet?” Because however high we get, are we ever really there? More details here.

In July, we are delighted to be hosting The Bridge Family Festival once again - on Saturday 27 July 2024. Entry is free. Enjoy live entertainment, rides and inflatables, stalls, workshops, food and drinks - and much more! Family friendly, with lots going on both in and outside The Bridge - come and join the fun! Runs 12noon - 4pm.

Also this month an exhibition of new work opens - Print Clan X Art Factory - created by members of Platform's Art Factory group, as part of Print Club, run during weekly sessions led by Print Clan, opens at Platform.

September we welcome The Show for Young Men, presented by GuestHouse Productions. A man and boy meet on a stage, somewhere between a wasteland and a hilltop at sunrise. They dance and play together, trying out what it means to be a man. Age recommendation 8yrs+. More details here.

Also in September we host Two Step - an exhibition of new and existing works presented site specifically by Glasgow based artists Beth Shapeero and Fraser Taylor. More details here.

In October we host In the Mood: A Musical Tribute to Glenn Miller and the Music of the 40s from Jon Ritchie and That Swing Sensation! Be transported to an era of pure nostalgia and swing - a truly unforgettable evening of hits from the golden age of big band music! Details here.

We are looking forward to hosting a new version of Treasure Island from Scottish Theatre Producers - a classic story told like never before, bursting with sea shanties, treasures and a sumptuous amount of adventure! Book here.

November sees the arrival of That Feeling When from Lyra Young Company -  a sensory dance theatre production with live music that asks how the seasons can be a guide to what feels good in the cycle of teen-hood. For age 10yrs+. Info here.

At last but not least we are thrilled to announce our new Christmas show for 2024 - Rumpelstiltskin! Written by Lewis Hetherington and from the team that brought you Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty, Platform, in association with Glasgow Kelvin College, brings this family friendly show to the Platform stage - suitable for everyone over the age of 5yrs.

Rumpelstiltskin has never fitted in. Is he a Troll? A Goblin? A Stinky Bog Monster? No one really knows! But he’s excited to head out into the world and start making friends.. 

Join Rumpelstiltskin as he finds his way in the world, with songs, jokes and lots of heart! 

Running from Tue 3 - Tue 24 Dec. Full details and booking information here.