The show goes on for neurodivergent theatre group

Many people hanker after the smell of the greasepaint and the roar of a live audience.

And while there are plenty of amateur dramatic and musical groups for adults, plus stage and theatre groups for children, one troupe in Devon is continuing to do its best to ensure adults with disabilities get a chance to tread the boards.

Performers with the All Stars Theatre Company have a wide range of neurodivergent conditions and learning disabilities, including Down's syndrome.

The group means a part of society that may fall "through the cracks" gets a chance to perform, leaders say.

The cast rehearses weekly on a Saturday morning at Lipson School Theatre in Plymouth.

Members are currently working on a show which is made up of jokes, dancing and lots of singing that is due to open until April.

However, they have appealed for help after recently losing people who provide technical support.

Joy Clarke, volunteer and main organiser said they were looking one or two volunteers to help with the technical side.

She said: "They need to be able to fit in with our community that is like a family.

"These people have gone down through the cracks, there are a lot of theatre groups for children but not for adults with learning difficulties."

The company was set up in 2004 by the parents of Emma who wanted somewhere for her to perform which helped her confidence.

Emma, who still takes part in the group, said it was her "second home".

She said: "All Stars is about friendship. It's like everyone is family and everyone calls it their happy place."

The group has more than 20 adult performers and a handful of volunteers, with support from family members.

Jackie, who is mum to Jenna, said: "They all look out for each other, they love and adore and respect each other, and, without the volunteers none of this would be ever happening."

Jackie said Jenna has just returned to rehearsals after being away for six months as a result of a critical illness.

She said: "I know that my daughter, without this group, she wouldn't be as outgoing as she is.

"It's bringing her speech back, it's bringing her feelings back and her social activities back."

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