A CAST of adults with learning disabilities will put their theatrical skills to the test when they take on a rendition of a famous musical.
The ECL Crafty Drama Group will be performing Annie The Musical at St Botolph’s Church, in Colchester, on December 9.
The group is dedicated to providing adults with learning disabilities the opportunity to engage in fun drama, music, dance, and sign language opportunities.
By putting on such activities, it gives members the chance to improve their social, communication, motor, and life skills in an inclusive environment.
Beth Lloyd-Clarke, ECL learning disabilities area manager for north Essex, is looking forward to the performance.
She said: “We’re really excited to be performing Annie this year for our end of year show.
“The group puts on two big shows each year, one in December and our summer ‘Picnic in the Priory’ event.
"They have worked really hard all year rehearsing Annie and are looking forward to performing it to their loved ones and the community.
“It has been wonderful to see their confidence grow over this last year; it is set to be a great show."
During last year’s National Learning Disabilities and Autism Awards, the ECL Crafty Drama Group was nominated as a finalist in the People’s Award category.
Although the group didn’t take home the award, it was highly commended for its work.
Kiara is a drama enthusiast who regularly attends the group every Tuesday and adores being a part of it.
She said: “I love coming to Crafty Drama, I like signing and music the most.”
Her mother, Susan, believes Crafty Drama has instilled a new level of “confidence” within Kiara and it has been a really good “opportunity to express herself”.
Tickets cost £12 and doors open at 1.30pm with the show beginning at 2pm.
ECL is a provider of care to thousands of people across Essex within homes and local communities.
The organisation supports the elderly, adults with learning disabilities, and people with sensory impairment.
Drama sessions are held Monday to Thursday at St Botolph’s Church and at the ECL Colchester Woodlands Day Centre on Fridays.
To purchase a ticket for Annie The Musical, contact 07872869333.
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