Real Time

04/04/2026

We were back at WASMA (Wokingham Area Schools Music Association) on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 March at The Hexagon in Reading for another year of production. For a second year running, we were thrilled to be joined by Sixth Form students who supported with the show's production across both days.

A huge congratulations to all of the schools and students for another fantastic WASMA - it's always a pleasure to be involved in the show! 🎥

02/04/2026

Reflections from our Focusing Minds screening in collaboration with John Sykes Foundation back in February Rising Sun Arts Centre 💭

With the project aiming to encourage participation in creative activities, build supportive networks, as well as change perceptions of mental illness in the community, it was fantastic to learn about the positive takeaways and learnings.

Community support, collaboration, and delivering something meaningful were all key themes at the end of the evening.

Sue Ryder
Green Health Thames Valley
Christian Community Action - CCA Reading

23/02/2026

A look back on Tuesday’s Focusing Minds Screening at The Rising Sun Arts Centre. Thank you to all of those who attended, we hoped you enjoyed the showcase as much as we did! 🎥

John Sykes Foundation
Sue Ryder
Green Health Thames Valley
Christian Community Action - CCA Reading

20/02/2026

13/02/2026

We’ll be hosting a Focusing Minds Screening on the Tuesday 17th February from 7pm The Rising Sun Arts Centre 🎬

No need to buy a ticket, simply come along and enjoy an evening of creativity and storytelling.

With support from John Sykes Foundation and Real Time Video, Open Mind (Reading’s mental health film group) have been exploring volunteer opportunities for people with mental health issues in Reading.

The Focusing Minds project worked with 4 voluntary sector organisations (Sue Ryder, The Rising Sun Arts Centre , Christian Community Action - CCA Reading and Green Health Thames Valley to make short films and social media content to publicise their work supporting volunteers.

We look forward to seeing you there!

11/02/2026

Some behind the scenes from the Pilgrim Hearts Trust Exhibition Launch in November. We were thrilled to help facilitate their 25th anniversary celebrations. Well done to all involved - an incredible project. Thank you to Pilgrim Hearts for letting us be part of their celebrations! 💜

28/12/2025

A year of Open Mind in our community. This film captures some of the moments that shaped Open Mind this year.

Thank you to everyone who showed up — you made the difference.

26/12/2025

We all have tired days.

Sometimes all it takes is being seen.

A short film by the Open Mind group

13/12/2025

For Alex and his band, Horserock, local venues are everything — but rising costs make it harder to find affordable spaces to rehearse and play.

His hope? More support from local government: festivals, rehearsal rooms, and opportunities that put local grassroots artists first.

How can we make sure local musicians get the space — and backing — they need?

10/12/2025

Wokingham Festival is more than just a music event - it’s a small, intimate space that feels like a community’s back garden. It's an important platform for local artists and original music, pushing back against the trend of venues closing and festivals only booking mainstream acts. Spaces like this are vital for keeping local music scenes alive and thriving.

What local music spaces matter most to you?

07/12/2025

Reading Festival is a rite of passage for many, but it's not the only space that matters for local music. This speaker’s experience highlights a crucial point: while festivals bring in huge acts, there's a real need for more mid-sized venues for artists and audiences year-round.

Protecting and creating these diverse spaces is essential for building a thriving, sustainable music scene.

What spaces are key to your city's music scene?

04/12/2025

For over 30 years, Greenpeace and other NGOs have used RISC as a meeting place. More than just rooms, it’s been an ethical hub — a space to connect, collaborate, and imagine alternatives to the profit-driven system.

Spaces like this give communities the freedom to think differently.

Where do you go to meet, share ideas, and take action?