Wigan Autistic Theatre Company is inviting people from across the borough to enjoy an evening of live music and entertainment while supporting its work with autistic people at a special fundraising event later this month.
‘A Night at the Musicals’ will take place on Friday 24 July at The Swinley Club in the Swinley area of Wigan. The evening promises a celebration of some of musical theatre’s best-loved songs, with performances from professional guest artists as well as members of the company.
Founded to create opportunities for autistic people through the performing arts, Wigan Autistic Theatre Company provides a safe, welcoming and supportive environment where members can build confidence, improve communication skills and develop lasting friendships. Through regular rehearsals, workshops and live performances, members gain valuable experience both on and off the stage while expressing themselves through theatre.
The company believes everyone should have the opportunity to perform, regardless of their experience or additional needs, and has become a growing part of Wigan’s community arts scene by giving autistic performers the chance to develop their talents and perform in front of live audiences.
The evening’s guest performers include Gary Davis, who appeared in the regional tour of I Should Be So Lucky: The Musical, alongside vocal group The Tenor Ladies and singer Claire Cannon. They will perform alongside members of Wigan Autistic Theatre Company, showcasing the confidence, creativity and talent that the organisation helps to nurture.
As well as the live performances, the audience will be able to take part in a musical theatre quiz and bid in a charity poster auction featuring posters from productions including Hamilton, Dirty Dancing, I Should Be So Lucky, The Rocky Horror Show, Matilda and Bat Out of Hell. Money raised during the evening will help the company continue providing inclusive theatre opportunities for autistic people across Wigan.
Martin Spencer from Wigan Autistic Theatre Company said: “A Night at the Musicals is a celebration of talent, community and inclusion. We are proud to showcase our members alongside some fantastic guest performers and look forward to welcoming audiences for what promises to be a wonderful evening of entertainment. Every ticket purchased helps support our ongoing work and creates more opportunities for autistic people to participate in the performing arts.”
The event takes place on Friday 24 July at The Swinley Club, Coppull Lane, Swinley, Wigan. Doors open at 7pm, with the show starting at 7.30pm. Tickets are available online and will also be available on the door.
For more information about Wigan Autistic Theatre Company or the event, email wiganatc@outlook.com.
