Drama Llamas Celebrate Successful Summer Show

Learning disabled performers wow Wadebridge audience in sell-out musical show

A drama group based in Wadebridge brought the house down with a packed-out performance of their summer showcase, A Night at the Musicals, featuring songs from Singing in the Rain, Mamma Mia and Fiddler on the Roof.

The Wadebridge Drama Llamas, a group of learning disabled adults supported by national charity Hft, staged their annual production at Wadebridge Social Club, attracting a full house for a night full of singing, dancing and laughter.

The group is based at the Resource Centre in Wadebridge and has been meeting weekly for rehearsals every Thursday. Each member chose their own musical number to perform.

“I loved being Del Boy”

Among the showstoppers was Darren, who took the lead in Singing in the Rain.

“I just love acting and singing,” he said. “I sing all the time – and I really love being part of the Drama Llamas and look forward to our meeting every week.”

Colin transformed into Del Boy from Only Fools and Horses, performing the show’s famous theme tune.

“I loved being Del Boy,” he said. “The audience were clapping and cheering.”

The group also made all the costumes, sets and props themselves during their Thursday afternoon sessions at the Resource Centre. Local artist and support worker Lee Clark led on set design, which included a cardboard cut-out of the Trotter family’s iconic yellow three-wheeler.

A community effort

Support Workers Jennifer Grout-Collister, Lynsey Crowley, Beth Yelland and Taylah Adams helped the performers prepare over the past year.

Jennifer said: “We’re immensely proud of the effort that the cast put in to make this show a fantastic success. Just over a year of rehearsals, costume and prop making all came together in the perfect way on the day. Now we start all over again and work towards the next production.”

The performance raised £200 through ticket sales, which will go towards the group’s next show.

Learning Disability Week 2025

The show took place just ahead of Learning Disability Week, which runs from 16th to 22nd June and is supported by both Mencap and Hft. This year’s theme, Do You See Me, aims to challenge the barriers that stop learning disabled people from fully participating in everyday life.

It encourages communities to not only see but truly hear and value learning disabled people. Supporters are encouraged to learn more about learning disabilities, create space for lived experiences, challenge discrimination, celebrate achievements and support relevant charities.

If you know someone who would like to join the Drama Llamas or support the group’s activities, contact the Resource Centre in Wadebridge on 01208 815614.