The Gladrags Secret Society Celebrates 4th Anniversary

Chickenshed is thrilled to celebrate the fourth birthday of Gladrags, the dazzling intergenerational social event created as part of The Space Between Us programme - an initiative recognised by The Stage Awards for its groundbreaking work in combatting social isolation and bringing communities together through creativity and genuine human connection.

Launched in response to the widespread loneliness experienced by many during covid- particularly those over 60, or living with dementia – Gladrags began as a bold experiment: could an immersive, theatrical social club help people step back into the world, feel welcomed, and forge friendships across generations?

Four years on, it’s clear the answer is a joyful, resounding YES!

To mark the Gladrags’ 4th Birthday, Chickenshed is hosting an immersive afternoon, Gladrags Goes to the Legend Lounge, on Sunday 22 February (2pm arrival, 2.30pm start, finishes 5.30pm).

A Secret Society Built on Warmth, Music and Community

Hosted by Chickenshed’s award winning, vibrant young Gladrags team and accompanied by the much‑loved intergenerational house band, The Ten Bob Notes, each Gladrags event transports audiences to a different decade. From the glamorous 1950s to the swinging 1960s, every secret location is transformed into an immersive, celebratory space full of music, dance, conversation and laughter.

What began with a packed 1960s pilot event quickly grew into a phenomenon. Word spread, membership blossomed, and soon events were filled to the rafters with people eager to reconnect, dress up, and shake a tail feather.

A Lifeline for Over‑60s - And a Bridge Between Generations

Upon entering a Gladrags event, it rarely takes more than a few minutes before everyone is on their feet - dancing, chatting, sharing memories and forming new ones. The intergenerational nature of the project has proved particularly powerful, breaking down barriers and building unexpected friendships.

The power of music on those living with dementia

Through a vital partnership with Age UK Enfield, the programme has already welcomed more than a three hundred new older adults into the Chickenshed community, many of whom live in care homes or with dementia, now describe Gladrags as a lifeline.

An Award‑Recognised Model for Social Impact

The Space Between Us - of which Gladrags is a central strand - was highlighted by The Stage Awards for its innovative, deeply human approach to creating connected communities. The recognition affirmed what participants have felt from the start: Gladrags isn’t just an event. It’s a movement built on empathy, belonging and joy.

Four Years On - And Just Getting Started

As Gladrags celebrates its fourth birthday, Chickenshed is proud to champion a growing community of members who return event after event for warmth, music, glamour, nostalgia and friendship.

Join the Celebration

Gladrags continues its mission to invite people out, lift spirits, and create unforgettable experiences filled with sparkle - all while remaining a treasured secret society that places human connection at its heart.

“Gladrags was created to combat loneliness - but what it has grown into is something bigger, brighter and more beautiful than we could have imagined. Four years on, the joy, connection and community spirit remain as electric as ever.” Rachel Yates, Creative Producer – Programme Manager The Space Between Us.

Watch a short documentary about the concept of Gladrags Secret Society- hear from those behind the scenes and then the members themselves.

https://youtu.be/edZVSfTyPas?si=pjiOsne6ZuNeQEeY

For more info visit: https://www.chickenshed.org.uk/connect-with-others/gladrags