MILLSTREAM, the Wimborne-based theatre group for learning disabled and neurodivergent adults, is seeking urgent financial support from individuals, businesses or organisations, to be able to continue running regular drama workshops and creating annual productions.
Tam Gilbert, co-director of the group which has its home at the Museum of East Dorset, says: “Although we are starting the lengthy process of applying for grants from local organisations and charities, we will have to stop holding monthly sessions immediately unless some interim financial help is found. As well as two professional directors/facilitators, each session cost includes a support worker, who is responsible for supporting the well-being needs of our members.”
The Millstream Project has been running for ten years at the MED and director Francesca Hollow says it is “such an important part of the museum”.
Learning disabled and autistic members come from Bournemouth, Poole, Purbeck and the New Forest to take part. All are passionate about performing but rarely get the opportunity to join inclusive companies dedicated to achieving high artistic standards. One member said: “I’ve looked around and Millstream is the only group that’s perfect for me.”
Millstream members are so keen for the group to continue that they have agreed to pay subscriptions for the first time, but this is challenging as most, for medical reasons, are not in full-time employment.
Director Mark Tattersall, at Dorchester Arts Centre, who programmed the recent show In Harmony, says: “Having never seen Millstream Theatre perform before, I didn’t know quite what to expect – but In Harmony absolutely blew me away…. it was the tremendous humour and sheer joy of the play that made it sparkle!”
After watching In Harmony, six new people want to join the company. Millstream has the potential to grow fast. “If there is anyone out there who would like to support Millstream’s immediate future – enabling us to keep the workshops running and capping costs to those who are struggling financially, we’d love to hear from you,” say directors Tony Horitz and Tam Gilbert.
Please contact Tony Horitz at tony.horitz@nullicloud.com or Tam Gilbert at tam@nullpersuasionarts.co.uk if you are able to help.m