There are so many ways you can get involved and participate in a project at The Riverfront no matter your age, ability or experience in the arts.
If you are a teacher or group leader and looking for ways your school can participate in the arts or creative industry visit the Schools section of the Our Projects, Programmes & Initiatives page.
The Riverfront's Community Critics Programme
At The Riverfront we passionately believe that the shows, performances, films and activities we offer are for everyone and every age. We try and put on a varied programme of activity per season so that everyone will find at least one they are interested in and want to attend.
We also understand however that many people think that the arts isn’t for them, whether its too boring, too expensive or they don’t think they are the right age to engage with us. At The Riverfront we are on a mission to change this and show everybody that they are welcome at the Riverfront and will have an enjoyable experience with us.
Community Critics is just one of the many ways you can get involved in The Riverfront and our programme. Whether you’re an individual, part of a community or sports group, you’re involved with a charity or have a school group, you can apply to attend a show for free as part of our Community Critics scheme.
You can apply for a free ticket to any of our shows, cinema screenings or workshops and – where possible – we will accommodate you. If we are unable to offer you tickets to your chosen event and date we will always aim to offer you a suitable alternative.
All we ask for in return is that you provide a review of your experience; this could be a video, in written from, a piece of poetry or artwork. Anything goes! We would then showcase your Community Critic review on our website, on social media and if appropriate in the weekly mailers we send out.
Our Community Critics Programme is open to all ages.
To apply to be a Community Critic for any of the upcoming events at The Riverfront, please email marketing@newportlive.co.uk and let us know which event you’d like to attend, as well as your contact details.
Read the reviews so far
Reviewed by Flynn Galliford on Thursday 24 February 2022.
'Pebble on The Beach was a fun, light-hearted and enjoyable show accessible for children & parents alike.'
Reviewed by Emma Garland on Saturday 5 March 2022.
'For anyone who has seen the sitcom, this musical offered a refreshing perspective.'
Reviewed by Rhiannon White on Thursday 17 March, 2022.
'When the lights dimmed for a final time, I wanted to wind back time and play it through all over again. I stood to leave, having been cultured, but also entertained.'
Reviewed by Emma Garland on Wednesday 23 March, 2022.
'Just in case lockdown has limited a sense of Wonderlust, this talk brought it rushing back. With scenic photos of endless snow-covered ridges, vast open waters and cute penguins, it reminded me of the world that is out there!'
Reviewed by Isla Williams on Tuesday 5 April 2022.
'A perfect balance of chaotic comedy, unpredictability and meaningfulness finds itself with the label ‘Petula’.'
Reviewed by Krystal S Lowe on Tuesday 5 April 2022.
'As this performance ended, I was left slightly speechless – only able to utter one word, ‘strange’. You don’t know me, but that’s a good thing. Petula was strange and absurd and exactly what’s needed to jolt us out of the mundane monotony of everyday life.'
Reviewed by Emma Garland on Saturday 9 April 2022.
'A show of super happy sparkly pop. This show demonstrated yet another variation on the Riverfront’s very varied programme of acts.'
Reviewed by Mind's Matthew Woolgar on Saturday 21 May 2022.
'It throws you into the elegance from the first moment and then it goes back and forth in brilliant and unexpected ways to slowly unspool the story of this insane - but oddly charming'
Reviewed by Mind's Matthew Woolgar on Wednesday 1 June 2022.
Reviewed by Isla Williams on Thursday 16 June 2022.
'The talented WNO Orchestra displayed an intricately curated programme with a variety of contrasting movements and created a lovely atmosphere from start to finish with David Adams bringing the musicians together.'
Reviewed by Mind's Matthew Woolgar on Thursday 14 July 2022.
Reviewed by Emma Garland on Thursday 29 July 2023.
Reviewed by Emma Garland on Friday 22 September 2023.
'This show was one of the best things I have ever seen at the Riverfront. It looked amazing from the advertising and I had really been looking forward to this! Suffice to say - it did not disappoint.'
Reviewed by Holly and Ryan on Monday 30 November 2023.
'It was a brilliant show. As a family we have been to most of the family shows in the last few years and this was by far the best.'
Work Experience
The Riverfront is keen to support anyone who is committed to pursuing a career in theatre or within the arts sector. If you are passionate about working in theatre, music, dance or community arts and would like to experience working in a busy and vibrant theatre and arts centre, The Riverfront could be the place for you!
Tasks could include everything from Box Office and Front of House to Marketing, Technical work or assisting tutors in setting up and running workshop sessions.
Work placements are available for students from Year 10 or above, college or university, and even individuals wanting a career change. We also sometimes offer specific placements and graduate internships, please contact us for current availability.
To discuss work experience opportunities please contact our Education and Participation Officer Danielle Rowlands on danielle.rowlands@newportlive.co.uk.