Centre Stage - performing arts in Dorset

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

Build confidence. Make friends. Get creative.

Overview

Join Blue Apple Theatre's new 12-week performing arts programme in Bournemouth. Develop your acting, singing and movement skills, make new friends and discover your creative potential in a supportive and welcoming environment.

Programme details

Fridays, 10.30am to 3pm

15 January to 23 April 2027

(No session on 19 February, 2 April or 9 April)

At The Bridge, Bournemouth

£50 per day

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

What?

Centre Stage is a 12-week performing arts programme for learning disabled, autistic and other neuro disabled adults aged 18+.

You'll explore acting, singing, movement and storytelling in a supportive, welcoming environment while building skills, confidence and friendships.

You do not need any previous performing arts experience.

Who?

Learning disabled, autistic and other neuro disabled adults aged 18+. 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.

When?

Fridays, 10.30am-3pm

Breaks and lunch break included in those times

15 January-23 April 2027

No sessions on:

  • 19 February

  • 2 April

  • 9 April

What?

What you will 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 you will 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

  • Pride in what you have achieved

Cost?

  • £50 per session (£600 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.

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.

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Looking ahead

Centre Stage is a new pilot programme. We hope it will become a regular part of Blue Apple's performing arts offer in Dorset.

Participants will have opportunities to:

  • Learn new skills

  • Be creative

  • Build confidence

  • Share ideas

  • Take part in performances

  • Celebrate achievements

Any questions?

Do I need performing arts experience?

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

What should I bring?

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

How many staff will be present?

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

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.

Is the venue accessible?

Yes. The venue is completely accessible but if you have specific questions please email the venue at enquiries@accessdorset.org.uk.

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.

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

Ready to join Centre Stage?

Build confidence, develop new skills, make friends and get creative through performing arts.

Phone: 01962 827352

Email: admin@blueappletheatre.com

Book your place today

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