Creative integration programme for people seeking sanctuary
“I thought my life was at an end when I was forced to leave my home country. I was stuck in a hotel room knowing no-one and with no hope. Then I was introduced to Beyond Skin charity and now I’m teaching guitar to people and doing what I love. It has literally saved my life.”
WE ARE ALWAYS SEEKIING VOLUNTEERS - contact us if interested
NOTE: This scheme was originally set up in 2021 in response to Afghanistan Crisis. Due to musicians/artists seeking sanctuary or in refugee status from other countries reaching out to us, we expanded supporting people from many countries wishing to avail of support through music & arts. In addition adults and children wishing to engage in creative activities for mental health, learning English and opportunities to meet other communities. People have kindly been donating musical instruments.
To date over 200 people have benefited from MARRS
Collaborative performances, music videos, exhibitions with opportunities to facilitate workshops and events and assistance to develop careers and businesses.
BBC Radio (John Toal Show) Feature
BBC (Ciaran McCauley Editorial)
BBC Article "world is crazy but music helps me survive"
UTV Ukrainian musician raising her voice in Belfast
The principal funder since 2021 Arts Council Northern Ireland with additional financial and support from Bernard Neville family, Gary Lightbody Foundation, Lottery Community Fund, Danelectro Guitars, Human Kind Foundation, Radius / Apex / Choice / Clanmill Housing, Orange Amps, WOMAD Foundation, Antrim Newtownabbey Council, Causeway Coast Glens Council, Welcome Churches, Sure Start, PRS for Music, Feile, Queens University, Ulster University and private donors.
Creative partners in Northern Ireland: Feile, Oh Yeah, Accidental Theatre, Black Box, Lyric Theatre, Mac Theatre, NI Opera, Grand Opera House, Belfast Exposed, Duncairn Arts, Belfast International Arts Festival, Cathedral Quarter Arts Festival, Soma Festival, Ulster Orchestra.
“We’re amazed at what you are doing in response to the Afghan Crisis and the refugees from different countries arriving to our shores. Even though we may speak different languages, have different cultures, we all can speak the language of music – something which is far more powerful than any lines in the sand. As an organization we are delighted to be a part of it in a small way." Tom - UK distributor for Danelectro
MARRS is managed by volunteers but there are ongoing logistic costs to meet the needs of those we are helping. You can donate HERE
