The People Vote INSPIRE

Apr 7 2017 | By Thom Dibdin More

INSPIRE wins People’s Project vote

The INSPIRE project run by Edinburgh-based Cutting Edge Theatre has won in the People’s Project awards, in which the public voted for three of five nominated projects.

Following the public vote, the project will now receive a grant of £48,880 to tour a play about Downs Syndrome and expand its work supporting young people with learning disabilities to boost their confidence and self-esteem.

Workshop assistant Tristen leading a session. Photo Suzanne Lofthus

Cutting Edge’s artistic director Suzanne Lofthus said: “We are delighted and overwhelmed by the support. I’m looking forward to developing the project over the coming year.”

The specific aims of the grant are to help young people with learning disabilities to work as workshop assistants within the project as well as work towards gaining a Certificate in Performing Arts. It will expand classes in schools in Edinburgh, East and West Lothian, and support young people to access theatre productions and backstage tours

In 2016, INSPIRE created Downs With Love for the Fringe. Based on some of the real life experiences of Abi, who is one of INSPIRE’s participants, it challenged perceptions and told the story of a young girl who has Downs Syndrome. The grant will allow Cutting Edge to create a touring version of the production.

All Edinburgh Theatre sends hearty congratulations to Cutting Edge for the award – and is much looking forward to seeing the new production of Downs With Love.