Stian Macshane’s journey as a performer has always been intertwined with his deep passion for education and youth work. This passion led him to create the Rhythm and Poetry workshops, where he merges the art of rap with creative writing to make traditional poetry more engaging for students. By reframing elements of the school English curriculum in a modern, culturally relevant context, Stian introduces young minds to the power of rhyme, rhythm, and self-expression in a way that captivates their attention.

Imagine a classroom where students are not just learning about poetry, but are fully immersed in it—building their own raps, collaborating with one another, and sharing personal stories through a new, exciting medium. This is exactly what Stian has achieved through his workshops, which have been delivered in schools like Hale School in Perth, where he’s performed to classes of over 200 students. The impact? Students walk away with more than just knowledge of rhyme schemes—they leave with greater confidence, improved creative thinking skills, and a newfound ability to express their identities through public speaking.

Stian’s workshops extend far beyond the classroom. From Telethon’s “Kids Big Day Out” to FORM’s Scribblers Youth Festival and the City of Perth’s Illuminate Yagan Square, Stian’s freestyle rap brings communities together, encouraging individuals of all ages to explore the art of rap while discovering its potential as a tool for connection and storytelling.