HAPPY STAGE, HAPPY STAFF
The Millennium Forum recently welcomed local tech firm, Alchemy, for a series of workshops as part of its hugely successful ‘Happy Stage’ project. Over a six week period, the North West’s leading theatre provided bespoke workshops for Alchemy staff, aimed at supporting mental health within the workplace. Participants took part in weekly sessions in yoga, mindfulness, song, dance, drama and, even stand-up comedy, in an aim to develop better coping mechanisms for stress and anxiety and, ultimately, creating a happier and healthier workforce.
Cara McCartney, Development & Creative Engagement Manager at the Millennium Forum, was delighted with the success of the project. She said:
“The Happy Stage project has shown the power of the arts in building confidence, well-being, and workplace success. Following its success with young people, we were proud to bring it into the workplace at Alchemy Technology Services, with the support of Arts & Business NI.
Through stand-up comedy training, singing and mindfulness-based exercises, participants developed confidence, communication skills and resilience, all within a creative and engaging environment. This project highlights the Millennium Forum’s strong relationships with local businesses and communities, demonstrating how the arts can support teamwork, innovation, and well-being.
With its success, we are now in a great position to offer this programme to more businesses, continuing to show how arts at the Millennium Forum can bring lasting benefits to workplaces and the wider community.”
Erin McFeely, Alchemy, added:
“We are proud to have deepened our ongoing partnership with the Millennium Forum for this wonderful project. We believe that access and participation in the arts has a positive impact on both our personal and professional development as well as our overall wellbeing. We were delighted to offer the opportunity to participate in Happy Stage to our employees who pushed themselves out of their comfort zone and embraced all the elements of the programme. Well done to all involved!”
Mary Nagele, Chief Executive Officer at Arts & Business NI said:
“When businesses and the arts join forces, they can achieve great things. At Arts & Business NI, we were proud to support this creative collaboration through our Investment Programme. By tapping into creative skills from the worlds of music, theatre and comedy, employees gained meaningful tools and experiences to support their mental health and wellbeing — empowering them to feel their best at work and beyond."
Happy Stage for Alchemy Technology was supported by A&B NI. Happy Stage is also supported by: Principal Partner NWRC, Find Insurance, The Sandwich Co, Ulster Garden Villages and Clear Project.
For more information on how businesses can become involved with the Millennium Forum, contact partnerships@millenniumforum.co.uk
ENDS
Photo caption:
Mags Anderson and Karen Sullivan from the Millennium Forum pictured with John Harkin and Erin McFeely (Alchemy) at the Happy Stage project. Also in the picture are Rory McSwiggan (facilitator) and participants from Alchemy, Anna McKeever and Jayne McLaughlin.