Burnaby groups offer theatre for people with disabilities

Two Burnaby groups have partnered to create a theatre program for people with disabilities.
Artspace and the Down Syndrome Research Foundation are putting on an eight-week theatre course called The Hero In You, which gives participants the opportunity to express their inner heroes and find themselves through theatrical activities.
"Teaching young people is always so inspiring. I strive to create a safe environment for youth to create and find their own unique voices and to let their imaginations soar," said Lindsay Drummond, a Vancouver-based actor instructing the course.
Drummond has worked with emerging artists with or without developmental, physical or mental health issues. The Hero In You gives participants who have Down syndrome or other developmental disabilities the opportunity to express themselves through different characters and improvisation.
"It's different for young adults, there aren't always opportunities like this in the community. Whenever we do theatre during the summer, we really see young adults come alive because they can really express themselves. Our adults have a lot to say but they are often not heard," said Pat Hanbury, the foundation's director of programs and services.
The course will be held at the Artspace facility at 4588 Hastings St. from Jan. 22 to March 12.
The course is open to people 18 or older. Register by visiting http://tinyurl.com/ArtspaceRegistration or call 778-989-9051.