Ups & Downs: Empowering Young People With Down Syndrome Through Theatre

Theatre group for young people with Down syndrome and their families, which brings joy to the community through the art of performance

The Ups & Downs theatre group was formed in 1995 by three music teachers who worked at an additional needs school and recognised that young people with Down syndrome had a particular musicality and love for theatre. The trio wanted to create a group that allowed these children to express themselves with the right support and free from any constraint or judgement.

Ups & Downs is now led by Lorna Leggatt, whose son Ellis, 26, has been a member of the group since he was five. She said: “Young people with Down syndrome can be funny, frail, musical, mischievous, wilful and witty – just like everyone else.

“They are individuals with their own strengths and weaknesses, likes and dislikes, hopes and dreams and, above all, they love to sing and dance. Ups and Downs allows them to show off their passion and they thrive on it.”

This inspirational and fun-filled group has gone from strength to strength and is celebrating its 30th birthday this year. They offer inclusive activities including music, dance and drama all with the aim of promoting self-expression and boosting the confidence of its participating young people - around 70 of them in total, all with Down syndrome or a sibling of someone with the condition.

As well as performing, members forge friendships, learn about teamwork, build resilience and develop vital life skills to help them far beyond the walls of the theatre. The group also offers camaraderie and support to families.

Every year, the group puts on a week of sell-out concerts to show off their talent to a delighted audience and promote the positive side of Down syndrome.

Lorna said: “The audience come thinking that they are just supporting a local charity but leave completely amazed and moved saying ‘I had no idea what they’re capable of’ - it breaks down stigma and really shows off everyone’s personality.”

What the Judges said: “We just love Ups and Downs. There is one word that sums them up perfectly - joy. It courses through everything they do, on stage and off it."

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