Centre Stage

A new performing arts course for learning disabled, autistic and other neuro disabled adults.

Build confidence. Make friends. Get creative.

Free taster session: Friday 2 October 2026.

Arrive 09.30am, Start 10.00am

Break 11.00am, Finish 1.00pm

Then book your place for the full 12-week programme:

Friday 6th November to 12th February 2027

Arrive 09.30am, Start 10.00am, Finish 4pm

Breaks and lunch break included in those times

Images by Mike Hall of Blue Apple performers working together in rehearsals.

The details

What?

  • A free half-day taster.

  • An introductory 12-week course.

  • If successful, we will then make the course a regular opportunity.

When?

Free taster session

Friday 2nd October 2026

Full 12-week programme

6th November to 11th December 2026

Christmas break

8th January to 12th February 2027

Fridays, 9.30am to 4.00pm

Breaks and lunch break included in those times

Who?

The course is for learning disabled, autistic and other neuro disabled adults. All participants need to be able to follow spoken instructions and manage without a carer or parent for 6 hours or be accompanied by a supporting adult.

The course will be run by qualified and experienced performing arts facilitators from Blue Apple Theatre who will be supported by an assistant from The Bridge.

To evaluate the course in terms of success and potential improvements there will be a researcher who may observe some sessions and contact you afterwards to find out what you think about it.

Where?

The Bridge, Chaseside, Littledown, Bournemouth BH7 7BX

This is a fully accessible, centrally heated ground floor space in Bournemouth with step-free access throughout. It is managed by Access Dorset.

There is an open-plan kitchen and toilets.

You can see what the space looks like at their website here: https://www.accessdorset.org.uk

There will be no other activities at the venue while we are there.

By car: It is just a short drive from the A338 Wessex Way. Free parking is available on site.

By public transport: Several bus routes stop near Chaseside, including the 1a, 14, 22 and M1 services. From Bournemouth town centre, journey times are typically around 15 to 20 minutes, depending on the service.

If travelling by train, Bournemouth railway station is the nearest mainline station. From there, you can take a bus or taxi to The Bridge, which is approximately 2 miles away.

 
What will you gain?

  • More confidence

  • Better communication skills

  • Better listening skills

  • Better teamwork skills

  • More confidence using your body and voice

  • Learn more about acting, singing, dance and movement

  • Be proud of what you have achieved

What will you do?

  • Develop your voice and communication skills

  • Improve how you move and use your body

  • Build confidence in performance and everyday life

  • Create characters and tell stories

  • Make your own short scenes

  • Act for stage, microphone and camera

  • Explore acting, singing, dance and movement techniques

  • Learn rehearsal and performance skills

  • Watch performances and share your ideas

What are the fees?

  • £70 per session (£840 for the 12-week programme)

  • Places are booked for the full 12-week programme

  • The full course fee is payable before the course starts (please contact us if you need to split the fee into two parts).

    Could you get funding?
    Some people attending Centre Stage may be able to use a Personal Budget or Direct Payment from BCP Council to help pay for their place. If you have a social worker, speak to them about whether Centre Stage can be included in your support plan. If you do not currently receive social care support, contact the BCP Adult Social Care Hub on 01202 123 654 to discuss an assessment.

Any questions?

Please see answers to common questions below.

Is this suitable for me?

These classes are for adults with learning disabilities, for example, Down’s syndrome, Williams syndrome, Autism.  There is a helpful explanation of what we mean by learning disability here.

All participants need to be able to follow spoken instructions and manage without a carer or parent for 6 hours or be accompanied by a supporting adult.

Do I need any experience?

No experience needed. These classes are for anyone who is interested in learning or developing their performing arts skills.

Will I need to bring lunch?

Please bring your own lunch, snacks for the breaks. Please bring your own water flask. There is supervised access to the microwave.

How many members of staff will be in the classes?

There will be at least one facilitator and one assistant for each session.

Medical support

Blue Apple staff will not be able to administer medication or support with toileting and in an emergency will call the family member and / or an ambulance if needed.

How do I find The Bridge?

See travel information further up the page.

Refund policy. Blue Apple will refund tickets in the following circumstances:

  • If Centre Stage is cancelled due to insufficient bookings or external circumstances.

  • If someone who has booked cannot take part because they are ill for the majority of the 12 weeks.

Your question not listed?

If you have more questions please phone: 07510 844480 or email groups@blueappletheatre.com

Blue Apple uses theatre to transform lives and campaign for change.

Please consider supporting us by making a donation here.