Blue Apple Theatre

Blue Apple Theatre has been using high quality, adventurous performing arts to transform the lives of people with learning disabilities (PWLD) since 2005, reaching around 5000 people each year. We are the only specialist provider in our area offering year-round training and performance opportunities for PWLD, through nine drama and dance sessions each term-time week for approximately 60 PWLD, with integrated sessions that include students, sixth formers and community volunteers.

We produce two original theatre shows (24 to date) annually and tour to regional main houses, have been seen in Parliament and at RADA. We also produce awareness productions and films. Partners include theatre venues, schools, police, National Health Service Trusts and universities. BBC3's hour- long documentary, ‘Growing Up Downs’ (Winner, Creative Diversity Network Award 2014), exploring our making and touring of Hamlet, is nominated for a 2015 International Emmy. We received The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in 2012.

We gained 5-year funding from the National Lottery (Reaching Communities, 2014) to extend our regular work to new areas. We are regularly supported by Arts Council, England, our local authorities and various Trusts and Foundations.