A theatre group for people with learning disabilities in Omagh is set to take the stage in Belfast and Dublin next month after receiving messages of support from current and former Irish presidents.
Skysdalimit will see their performance of ‘The Circus’ on stage at the Helix Theatre in Dublin and the Waterfront in Belfast in October and November.
The charity group has been on the go in the Co Tyrone town for the last decade, giving those with learning disabilities and autism locally a space to express their acting talent.
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“We’ve been planning to take the show on tour for years and the vision has always been to raise awareness of inclusive theatre and create a space for that,” Pearse told MyTyrone.
“We have reached a place now where the cast have so much confidence now that it’s time to take the show on tour.
“We also want to inspire intellectually disabled people and those with autism to take to the stage because they can really become empowered through the arts.
“The whole group is really excited and some of them are a wee bit nervous too. A lot of them have never been to Dublin before, many of them will be out of their comfort zone but it’s a fantastic opportunity.”
Skyzalimit has received messages of support from Irish president Michael D Higgins and former president Mary McAleese ahead of the upcoming shows in Dublin on 15 October and Belfast on 12 November.
“I am in awe of everyone who makes Skyzdalimit happen,” McAleese’s letter reads.
“You are life changers, attitude changers, bringers of laughter, love and deep, deep insight into the very best of humanity.
“Thank you, thank you a thousand times over! You are exactly what we all need!”
Pearse praised those involved who will make the shows happen, and said there was a wider message about allowing more intellectually disabled to get onto the stage.
“We’ve had quite a lot of public support for it and we’re trying to get the message out as best we can.
”We’re trying to attract a crowd who normally wouldn’t go to see an inclusive show. We want to see others who may be intellectually disabled or autistic there as well so they can see that they can get on the stage themselves.
“If people see the show then they’ll be inspired to set up their own groups around the country, so more people can get on the stage and become visible in their communities.”
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