Local performers capture the spirit of London 2012
Members of Winchester’s Blue Apple Theatre have been helping to promote the city during the recent visit by Paul Deighton, the Chief Executive of the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games (LOCOG).
Blue Apple Theatre – which includes a mixture of able and learning-disabled performers – entertained the crowds with a special performance inspired by London 2012. They were also joined by performers from the StopGAP Dance Company based in Farnham, which also includes performers with disabilities.
Before visiting the High Street to enjoy the performance, Mr Deighton had been to see the city’s newly refurbished tourist information centre and learn more about the city’s plans in the run-up to 2012. He was left impressed by the range of initiatives being undertaken in Winchester; especially those aimed at improving the experience and participation of those with disabilities. Mr Deighton said he was keen for Winchester’s ‘good practice’ to be spread across the UK.
Cllr Patricia Stallard, Winchester City Council’s 2012 Champion, said: “Winchester may not be hosting any of the events in 2012, but we have certainly got off to a great start when it comes to making the most of this global sporting phenomenon to make a difference for local people. In May this year we saw the opening of the new, Olympic-standard athletics stadium at Bar End, and only a few months later we are being commended by the Chief Executive of LOCOG for our work on making Winchester a more accessible district for everyone.”
Peter Clerke, who manages Blue Apple Theatre, was delighted that the performers had the opportunity to represent the city in this way. He added: “It was brilliant that StopGAP and Blue Apple had this opportunity to perform together. It was a great workshop that everyone enjoyed, and something that gave the company a fantastic opportunity to further develop their skills and get fired up by the 2012 theme. Watch this space!"
Blue Apple Theatre offers able and learning-disabled adults the chance to discover and develop skills while devising and creating shows for the public. Blue Apple offers the only chance for learning-disabled performers to take part in theatre locally. See www.blueappletheatre.com for more information.
For more information about StopGAP Dance Company, visit their website at www.stopgap.uk.com