2. Walter Pater
2025
In Leaps and Bounds
Cinematographer, Editor
Clips of Cosgrove Theatre Players' rehearsals, and their live performance of Harry Potter, have been captured in this documentary, along with voices of some members of the Cosgrove Community, including some performers/learners and their respective family members.
Heather Gray, our CEO, is featured. Heather emphasises the transformative power of Cosgrove's drama for adults with learning disabilities, highlighting its impact on confidence, connection, and personal growth. With the collaboration of Teaching Drama Artist, Clare Hume, individuals are given the opportunity to participate in high-quality drama experiences, experiences which stretch their abilities and foster talent. Clare notes the joy of mutual learning and collaboration in a supportive environment, where individuals can discover their creative potential without limitations.
Murray shares his journey from feeling inadequate in acting to thriving on stage, crediting the supportive community and Clare's guidance for his progress. Similarly, Sascha describes how drama has boosted her confidence, enabling her to speak in public, despite her stutter. Her Mum, Lilias, observes the mutual support and dedication among performers, noting significant personal growth, particularly in Sascha.
Lauren expresses her lifelong passion for drama and how her participation has nurtured her skills and ambition. Her Mum, Marion, reflects on Lauren's transformation from shyness to confidence, highlighting the benefits the Cosgrove Theatre Players has brought to her life in terms of her sense of purpose and general wellbeing.
And it is Mark, who encapsulates the sense of community, declaring everyone as a second family.
This entertaining and beautifully created documentary by film maker, Helena Ohman, breathes life into these words, it affords the viewer an insight into the quality of theatre being produced by our performers, and illustrates that, in the making and gifting of same, the performer's life is much enriched.
By Clare Hume