Guests from a wide variety of organisations had the privilege of attending the premier of ‘What comes next’ a theatre performance showcasing the hopes and dreams of people with learning disabilities.
Trindlemoss Day Opportunities, working with Neighbourhood Networks, PAMIS (Promoting A More Inclusive Society), and the Scottish Commission for People with Learning Disabilities, hosted the first screening of their powerful new film. The team created the film as part of a unique project funded by Creative Scotland and The Baring Foundation, in partnership with the Mental Health Foundation.
Dominic Jarrett, Learning Disabilities Development Manager, explained: “The project explored the aspirations of people with learning disabilities, allowing them to celebrate their hopes, dreams, and creativity through a remarkable theatre performance.
“Supported by ShowWorks Theatre and local artist Lynn McNally, the project culminated in a vibrant performance at the Harbour Arts Centre, which allowed people to share with friends and family their aspirations in imaginative and joyful ways. From this performance, and additional footage captured before and after, a short film was then developed, which truly captured the energy and spirit of everyone.”
Customers of Trindlemoss Day Opportunities and members of Neighbourhood Networks were actively involved in the entire creative process – from the initial idea to the music, characters, and artwork, as well as filming material for inclusion in the short film. The production included contributions from more than 50 participants, whose artwork, voiceovers, dance, and music were all woven into the final performance. The project allowed all who took part, both staff and clients, to try new things and grow in confidence.
Sam, who played James Bond in the production, expressed his excitement: “I was nervous at first, but I can’t believe I’m going to be in a theatre!” Meanwhile, Pauline, added: “I can’t wait to do it.”
Kenny McMahon, a Development Worker at Trindlemoss, commented: “It was amazing to see individuals who were usually quiet come out of their shells. The way they transformed and expressed themselves on stage was truly inspiring.”
Film-maker James Gibb, of Halo Digital Arts, said, “It was amazing to see people’s confidence grow both behind and in front of the camera. There was real joy in the theatre by the end, and the atmosphere was incredible.”
Dominic Jarrett added: “It was far more ambitious than we expected. The production became a source of optimism, excitement, and pure joy. The film highlights the immense creativity of people with learning disabilities and shows what is possible with opportunity, and a small amount of support.”
The film will also be featured at two other festivals this autumn:
- Accessible Book and Story Festival in Edinburgh on 13 and 14 September, where it was accompanied by a question and answer session with customers and staff from Trindlemoss Day Opportunities.
- Mental Health Arts Festival in October, offering an additional platform to explore the project’s themes of life changes, aspirations, and inclusion.
This project builds on another successful arts project last year, entitled ‘How we see ourselves’ – visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1ItOZmpqZ_8 to view. ‘What comes next’ will also be available on YouTube soon.