I Am Here Too – Performing Arts Programme

The National Lottery Community Fund

I Am Here Too was a three-year performing arts project delivered in partnership with Lagan Village Youth and Community Group in Belfast, supported by The National Lottery Community Fund. The project worked with adults with disabilities from Orchardville, using the performing arts to support wellbeing, self-expression and personal development.

With creative direction from Ciara McGeown, the programme supported participants to develop speech and language skills, build relationships with peers and grow in confidence through regular creative engagement. Sessions used drama, movement and performance as accessible tools to encourage communication, collaboration and self-belief in a supportive and welcoming environment.

What made I Am Here Too distinctive was the time it allowed for trust to grow. Over three years, participants developed a strong sense of ownership over the work, finding their voices, supporting one another and stepping into performance with confidence and pride.

Public performances became moments of recognition for families, friends and the wider community, celebrating progress, courage and self-expression. The project leaves a legacy of confidence, connection and belonging, shaped through sustained creative practice and shared performance.