Spotlight shines on award-winning Haringey youth theatre (From Haringey Independent)

Spotlight shines on award-winning Haringey youth theatre

12:02pm Tuesday 8th December 2009 in Your Local Areas By Elizabeth Pears

A HARINGEY theatre company that welcomes young actors of all abilities, backgrounds and educational needs has been honoured for its positive influence in the community.

Haringey Shed, based at Bernie Grant Arts Centre, collected the Philip Lawrence award at a sparkling ceremony hosted by television presenter Sir Trevor McDonald at the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA), in west London.

Sir Trevor heaped praise on the group. He said: "I think this is fine work.

"I particularly like the involvement of young people with disabilities."

The accolade was handed to the talented troupe — who carry the motto "where everyone has a part to play" — by children's secretary Ed Balls for their creative and inclusive work with young people.

The project gives young people, aged between 11 and 16, the opportunity to gain skills, confidence and expertise in drama and musical theatre production.

Through their involvement, the young people become better prepared to engage in their community and consider the consequences of the roles they play in the wider world.

It is also an avenue to get young people to mix with those from different backgrounds and make social networks more diverse.

Haringey Shed patrons include actress Sue Johnstone and Tottenham MP David Lammy.

The Philip Lawrence awards were set up in memory of head teacher Philip Lawrence who was murdered outside his Maida Vale school 14 years ago.

Winning projects receive £1000 and become members of the Philip Lawrence Awards Fellowship which offers training and support to help further the winners work.