Summer arts festival for learning disabled people, families and carers

The festival, which runs from August 5 to 28, is organised by Hubbub theatre company, who wants to ensure that more people stay connected and overcome feelings of anxiety and depression in these uncertain times.

Hubbub, which is based in Derby, is an ensemble of learning disabled and non-disabled performers who create physical theatre, using movement and original music to tell human stories.

From the start of lockdown, the theatre company launched ‘Hubbub At Home’ with workshops, rehearsals and performance-sharing which have been a lifeline for participants and their carers.

Those involved in Hubbub’s actor training programme have also been able to continue their learning online and develop creative ideas for the company’s new performance piece ‘The Drum.’

However, the theatre company says that, as restrictions ease, many more vulnerable people are at major risk of being left without connection to express their feelings and maintain relationships as they need to continue to shield.

This is borne out by recent reports by The Office for National Statistics highlighting that one in ten adults with a disability reported often or always felt lonely – compared with one in 20 non disabled adults.

Hubbub artistic director Jen Sumner said: “As well as continuing weekly workshops for our regular participants which have now become an essential part of their week, the Summer Festival will reach out to even more learning disabled people and non disabled people across Derbyshire and the East Midlands.

“Our aim is to offer an accessible and safe way to bring together people who are wanting to connect with a range of virtual activities that will help them feel happier and healthier – combating feelings of loneliness, isolation, anxiety and depression in these turbulent times.”

For more information about how to join the Summer Festival visit https://hubbubtheatre.org/. Email [email protected] to join a ‘Coffee and Catch up’ with Hubbub on Zoom on Friday, July 24, between 11am and 12 noon to learn more about this.

Hubbub has launched a crowdfunding activity to support is future plans. Donors will receive hand-signed cards from actors and butterflies made by some of its members, alongside videos, songs and thank you messages. To support the crowdfunding campaign by donating £5 a month and become an #AgentofKindness, click here

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