Facilitator Support

Do you love performing arts?

We are looking for a volunteer to help out in our singing group for learning disabled adults who have a learning disability. We support people who have a learning disability e.g. Down syndrome, autism, brain injury or other neuro disability to pursue their passion for acting and theatre performance. 

Our Singing Group meets Monday, 4.30 to 5.30 pm during term time at The Chapel, University of Winchester SO22 4NR.

Blue Apple Singers cover a broad mix of song choices and singing styles. The group perform at external events and within some stage events.

Participants are led by a trained professional to explore their creativity, learn valuable skills, and develop their self-confidence while working towards presenting performances indoors and outside and also at our "For One Night Only" showcase at Thornden Hall in February. 

Volunteer group assistant role

Some information about what is involved when volunteering as a group assistant with Blue Apple Theatre.

Volunteers help support the performers to rehearse in smaller groups once they have been set tasks by the facilitator, to work separately on specific sections of the piece so that they can move things forward faster. The volunteers also join in with full group activities and exercises, help contribute to discussions and provide supportive feedback.

There are also opportunities to support the performers during the shows for those interested in performance themselves, for example help with learning lines, stage positioning and other support.

Musical experience is very useful but is not essential. The volunteer will need a recent DBS check or be prepared to have one undertaken for the role.

Purpose of role

To take part on an equal basis in creative music making while enabling and encouraging adults with learning disabilities to participate, supporting them in learning songs and public performance. 

Key attributes

You should be willing to learn to communicate effectively with adults with learning disabilities and motivate performers, have respect for others of any ability or background, be friendly and have a belief in the importance of equal opportunities.

If you would like to take part in supporting this group, please register your interest.

About Blue Apple Theatre

Blue Apple is an inspirational and ambitious theatrical company that supports learning disabled performers to develop and present high quality productions to the widest possible audiences – performing and touring theatre, dance and film within a variety of venues around Hampshire and the southern regions, as well as nationally and internationally.

Blue Apple run performing arts classes across Hampshire.

The charity merged with Minstead Trust in 2025. This partnership strengthens everything we do. It brings together high-quality social care, supported employment and creative expression, all under one roof.

Skills

• Enjoyment of performing in a group
• Ability to sing (sight reading is not needed at all)
• Enthusiasm
• Patience
• Experience of people who have a learning disability would be very useful but is not essential
• The volunteer will need a recent DBS check or be prepared to have one undertaken for the role