ECL Crafty Drama - Colchester | Learning Disabilities & Autism

ECL Drama (Crafty Drama) is a performing arts group that aims to enhance the lives of people with learning disabilities and/or autism, helping them to gain independence, confidence, and self esteem.

About us

ECL Drama is a popular performing arts group who were awarded ‘Highly Commended’ in the People's Category of The Learning Disabilities and Autism Awards 2022, for making a difference to the lives of the customers they support.

We are an entirely inclusive drama group who gives adults with learning disabilities the chance to learn social, communication, motor, and life skills through the use of sign language, music, dance, and drama.

Performing arts doesn't mean that everyone has to be on stage, for individuals who prefer to be creative behind the scenes there are plenty of opportunities to make costumes, build sets, and create props.

The drama group is based at St Botolph's church in Colchester from Monday to Thursday, and on a Friday they join the activities at the day centre at ECL Colchester - Woodlands. You can find out more here: ECL Colchester - Woodlands Day Centre.

An important part of ECL drama is promoting diversity and community inclusion. We aim to do one big production and several smaller performances in a year, to which the general public, as well as family and friends are invited.

Our performances are a regular feature at Colchester's Culver Square, we volunteer our help with the drama workshops at the Mersea Island Festival, and have performed at the Picnic In The Priory in front of the Mayor and Mayoress of Colchester.

We also take part in the community activities organised by the ECL Colchester - Woodlands day centre on a Friday.

When we are not either performing or volunteering our services in the community you can find us at St Botolph's church in Colchester from Monday to Thursday, and at the day centre at ECL Colchester - Woodlands on a Friday.

During this time we are reading scripts, rehearsing our lines and dance routines, brushing up our makaton sign language, and making costumes and props.

You can even work towards gaining an ASDAN qualification in Performing Arts which recognises your achievements.