around the fire
creative circle
Saturday 7th February 2026
2.30pm to 4.30pm (arrival from 2.15pm)
The Creative Space, Wythenshawe Forum Library
Open to women 18+ (trans inclusive)
15 places (Wythenshawe women priority)
Free, donations welcome
Please book - message Ali through the contact form
The first half of the circle is about using creative approaches to land with ourselves, tapping into what we're bringing into the space that day. This might involve writing, movement, rhythm, creative visualisation and so on, both individually and communally.
After a break, there'll be a gathering in circle 'around the fire'. Each woman will have a couple of minutes to share something, if she wishes. This might be something brought to the circle or that has grown out of the activity that day. It could be a poem, song, dance or artwork - or simply words that want to be expressed.
What you may like to bring:
Refreshments (not provided)
Mats, blankets, cushions
Ear defenders, fidget toy or other accessory
Something for the decorative area at the centre of the circle
- like a stone, leaf, picture or other object
A drum, rattle or other percussion instrument
Something for the Share that will take no more than a couple of minutes
Cash donation towards Creative Space activity
How it is neuro-friendly
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You contribute just by coming. There is no demand to do anything. It's all just invitation.
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Show up as you are. This is about connection, not performing - a place to take off our everyday masks.
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Do what you need to do to be comfortable. Sit at the side or take a break; lie down or sit on cushions; stand if you need to. You don't have to be still - stim if you like.
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The circle will be held in a way to encourage co-regulation. This means more of a somatic, whole-body approach where movement is welcomed. It can be better for neurodivergent nervous systems than neurotypical practices like mindfulness, meditation and breathwork.
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No hierarchy. We're all important, we all matter. These circles are about coming together to co-create. Each gathering will be a unique collaborative event.
Please feel encouraged to get in touch before or after a circle to share any needs you might have. Use the online form.
IMPORTANT: By the nature of this work, some powerful stuff may come up at times. While I'm trained/experienced in offering emotional support and holding space, everyone is responsible for themselves during the gatherings and taking care of their own wellbeing.
about ali
I'm Ali Davenport, Manchester writer and poet. I've lived in Wythenshawe for over twenty years and worked in the area in various roles. You may have seen me at Liveinshawe where I'm a regular.
I'm offering these gatherings to develop my own creative practice. As a neurodivergent person, I'm curious to play with neuro-friendly approaches. I think these are often better for everyone, allowing people to be themselves.
To those who come, thank you for joining me in this exploration.Thanks also to the Creative Space and James for giving us a playground.
Come, sisters, gather in circle.
Bring a seat of your choosing
– rocking chair, rug, stool;
a throne, if you’re so inclined.
We are all queens, sovereign to ourselves.
Show up as you like; nothing is fixed.
We’re curators of this liminal space.
Sit, sisters,
around this communal fire we’ve made.
Settle yourselves.
We’ll begin.