2025 Winner
UPS & DOWNS THEATRE GROUP
Theatre group for children and young people with Down’s syndrome and their siblings which has been making a difference for three decades.
This inspirational and fun-filled group is celebrating its 30th birthday this year. Around 70 young people with Down’s syndrome and their siblings come together every Sunday to share their passion for music, theatre and dance.
The group was formed in 1995 by three music teachers who worked at an additional needs school and recognised that young people with Down’s Syndrome had a particular musicality and love for theatre.
As well as performing, members forge friendships, learn about teamwork, build resilience and develop vital life skills. The group also offers camaraderie and support to families. Each March, the family-led group put on a week of sell-out concerts to show off their sensational talent and promote the positive side of Down’s syndrome. Ups and Downs President Lorna Leggatt, whose son Ellis, 26, has been a member of the group since he was five, said: “Young people with Down’s syndrome can be funny, frail, musical, mischievous, wilful and witty – just like everyone else.
“They are individuals with their own strengths and weaknesses, likes and dislikes, hopes and dreams and, above all, they love to sing and dance. Ups and Downs allows them to show off their passion and they thrive on it.”
Ellis added: “I love performing with the Ups and Downs. We have so much fun. They are my family and I love them all.”
Over the years the company has amassed a host of celebrity fans including Paolo Nutini who came with his family to watch the show and Callum Beattie, who is a patron of the charity, and has been performing at their shows for the last four years.
Callum has also asked the group to open for him at the OVO Hydro in November.