A theatre group for adults with learning disabilities in Atherstone is preparing to bring the magic of Narnia to the stage this Christmas thanks to a generous donation from a Midlands construction and property development firm.
The Leading Players, who are based at the Owen Street Community Arts Centre, will perform CS Lewis’s classic tale The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe at the centre on Thursday, December 10 and Friday, December 11 at 7pm and on Saturday, December 12 at 2pm.
The £500 donation from Deeley Construction, which is currently working in the town, will help fund the group’s Christmas show and support its work throughout the year.
Rob Greaves, spokesperson for the Leading Players, said: “We all really appreciate this very kind donation. It means such a lot to us and will help finance our Christmas show and continue our good work. Thank you very much.”
Deeley Construction is working in partnership with Housing 21, a leading not-for-profit Extra Care and Retirement Living provider, to transform the former Britannia Mill hat factory into a new 70-apartment Extra Care scheme for people aged 55 and over.
Britannia Mill was a prominent part of Atherstone’s industrial landscape for generations, but stood vacant for more than 20 years.
After more than a decade of stalled proposals, North Warwickshire Borough Council, Homes England and Deeley Group helped to unlock the scheme.
Demolition of the derelict buildings took place earlier this year, and construction of the new development is now underway.
Steve Turner, Construction Director at Deeley Construction, said: “The Leading Players is a real asset to Atherstone, giving adults with learning disabilities the chance to take to the stage and perform in front of their own community. We’re delighted to be able to support their Christmas show.
“Being a good neighbour is important to us wherever we work. Our team has been part of the Atherstone community since work began at Britannia Mill, and supporting local groups like the Leading Players is one way we can give something back to the town.
“The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe is a festive favourite, and we wish everyone involved the very best for their performances. I’m sure it will be a magical show for everyone in the audience.”
The new Extra Care scheme will provide high-quality, accessible apartments designed to support independent living, with care available on site, communal facilities and a dedicated on-site manager.
The Leading Players began in 2011 and is led by adults with learning difficulties from across Warwickshire.
Tickets for The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe are available from cast members or via the ticket hotline on 07779 157665.
Caption: Member of The Leading Players with Deeley Group PR and Marketing Assistant Chelsea Smart (middle row, third from left) and Deeley Construction Project Manager Andy Adlington (middle row, fourth from left)