27 January 2010

More than 100 get serious about art

Mencap's new taster event attracts budding artists and performers of all ages

Over 100 people with a learning disability took part in a range of arts activities at a special new event hosted by Mencap in London on 24 January.

'Serious about art' saw budding artists from 8 years old upwards experiment with songwriting, acting, dancing, poetry, stage fighting and musical theatre in workshops led by National Youth Theatre professionals and West End stars.

The event, which will take place in London every winter, was held at the Jacksons Lane Theatre. It was modelled on the success of Mencap's 'Serious about sport' day, which launched last summer and will take place again this year on 6 June.

Mencap celebrity ambassador and former 'Eastenders' actor Kellie Shirley said at the opening ceremony: "People like Susan Boyle have shown how people with a learning disability can go out there and show the world how fantastic and talented they are."

The closing ceremony gave participants the chance to perform on the theatre's main stage, including a group performance of a special song composed on the day by songwriting workshop leader Ben O'Sullivan.

Find out more about arts activities taking place near you at www.artspider.org.uk – the Mencap learning disability arts website