MEMBERS of CLASP, a self advocacy group for people with learning disabilities, are busy rehearsing for their Talent Show Spectacular.
Debs Morrison, founder of the group says: “Our members are really thrilled that this year, thanks to Wokingham In Need, we will be performing in a proper theatre.
“Last year our talent show was online, so to have such a wonderful space, with proper dressing rooms is really exciting.
“We started rehearsing before Christmas, and we’re now working hard to get all the acts ready.
Debs says the performers are concentrating especially on projection and articulation.
“These are great skills, not only for the stage, but for life as well,” she says.
“And performing in this way really shows our members and our audience what we can achieve, and helps people grow in confidence.”
Charity Wokingham In Need is sponsoring the talent show, by organising the event and covering theatre costs.
“We’re delighted that they have kindly agreed to host the production,” says Debs.
“It means a lot to our members to be able to perform in a professional theatre, with a proper set and great costumes.”
Susan Jackson from Wokingham In Need was very happy to support the group’s desire to perform live this year, rather than online.
She says: “I’ve seen a couple of their rehearsals and it’s wonderful to see members of CLASP performing in a way they never thought they would be able to.
“We’re hoping that this show will be ground breaking and we’re really pleased to support such lovely capable people, who can so often be poorly treated.
“We’d like this show to be a real celebration of kindness.”
The production is also supported by Cathy from Circus Scene, and by care homes and primary schools, who are helping to create props.
“People can expect a show filled with puppets, circus skills, poems and funny stories written by group members,” says Debs.
“And of course we’ll be singing our song, Reach For The Stars.
“Any funds raised will be ploughed straight back into our activities.
“We provide services five days a week, all free of charge – and we are desperate to keep it that way.”
CLASP’s Talent Show Spectacular is performed at the Whitty Theatre, Wokingham.
The event takes place on Friday, March 10.
Doors open at 6.45pm, with the performance at 7.30pm.
Hot drinks, wine and beer will be available from the bar.
Tickets cost £5 and can be purchased at: www.ticketsource.co.uk
For more information call: 07867 530727 or visit: www.claspwokingham.org and www.wokinghaminneed.com
