2024-02-16 10:58:28
Learning disabled adults write and perform their own play in Market Harborough
A group of learning disabled adults from Market Harborough have debuted their original play, Musical Mayhem, following months of writing, preparation and rehearsals.
The performance, which took place at the end of January at Market Harborough Theatre, was a culmination of 12 months of hard work to perfect the idea and bring it to life.
The play itself was created entirely by the seven-strong group who all attend learning disability charity Hft’s ‘On Your Doorstep’ service, which aims to provide person-centred support and day opportunities for learning disabled adults.
They wanted to tell the story of a writer who was struggling with writer’s block. The play explored how the writer dreamt about a group of people who discussed a series of shows, including Matilda and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, inspiring her to perform songs from the shows with the group. This ultimately helped her in overcoming her writer’s block.
Over 50 people attended the group’s performance to celebrate the hard work and dedication they had put in over the past year.
Tracey Reynolds, Deputy Service Manager at Hft, explains, “Lots of hours creating and rehearsing the play led to the final show. There was a fantastic turn out, including family and friends of the people we support. They did such a good job!”
The group thoroughly enjoyed the experience, with one performer, Louise, saying, “I thought it was terrific, everything was well organised and the group did fantastically.”
Another, Anthony, adds, “I enjoyed performing as Rusty. I think we did really well!”
The group is hoping this performance will be one of many, with a desire to create and perform many more shows just like this one.
Nick, who also performed, concludes, “I look forward to the next performance!”
Notes to editors
For further information please email media.enquiries@hft.org.uk
About Hft
Proudly established in 1962 by a group of visionary parents, Hft is a charity supporting more than 2,500 learning disabled adults in England and Wales. Together, we are creating a future where learning disabled people and their families can live the best life possible.
Providing personalised support. Creating solutions for living independently. Coming together to campaign for positive change. Fundraising for new opportunities and a bigger impact.
In 2033, we’ll live in a world where learning disabled people have greater choice. About where they live. The support they need and want. And how to spend their time and money.
Learning disability versus difficulty
A learning disability is different from a learning difficulty but the terms are often confused and used inter-changeably. A learning difficulty does not affect general intellect, whereas a learning disability is a life-long condition characterised by a reduced intellectual ability and struggle with everyday activities.
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For more information about Hft please visit www.hft.org.uk
