Blue Apple Theatre Joins Forces with Minstead Trust in Charitable Merger

The BLUE Apple Theatre has joined forces with the Minstead Trust.

The two businesses will operate under the Minsteady Trust name.

Nonetheless, Blue Apple Theatre will preserve its distinctive character and principles: offering individuals with learning disabilities the opportunity for creative expression via the performing arts.

In 2005, Blue Apple came into being through the joint efforts of mother-and-son duo Jane and Tommy Jessop. Seeking an accessible local organization proved challenging when trying to accommodate individuals with disabilities, leading Jane to establish a platform where voices such as those of actor Tommy, who has Down Syndrome, could be highlighted effectively.

Since then, the company has delivered more than 30 productions to audiences over the south of England, including Shakespeare’s Globe where they performed an adaptation of Hamlet, with Tommy playing the titular role.

Alison Frater, chair of Blue Apple Theatre, said: "Blue Apple has a long track record of producing inspiring theatre delivered by and with learning disabled artists for new audiences locally, nationally and internationally.

"We’re excited to be joining hands with Minstead Trust. We value its leadership as a forward-thinking and innovative provider of services to people with learning disabilities and autism. The merger will bring the growth we need to build bold and courageous theatre that excites audiences and challenges social perceptions."

Tommy Jessop as Hamlet in a Blue Apple Theatre production (Image: Will Jessop)

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The Minstead Trust has accumulated 39 years of experience and specialist knowledge, offering tailored support to individuals with learning disabilities based on each person’s specific requirements. The organisation initially began operations at Furzey Gardens in Minstead, starting off with just one employee and five adults who have learning disabilities. Equipped only with some basic gardening tools and a plot of land, this team initiated an outdoors initiative aimed at enhancing social bonds and overall well-being among members.

Currently, the Minstead Trust assists over 320 individuals with learning disabilities. Similar to Blue Apple, this organization is committed to aiding people in achieving their full potential, making sure that their viewpoints are acknowledged and respected.

"For many years, we have greatly respected Blue Apple. They stand out with their remarkable creativity and outstanding quality," stated Adam Dodd, CEO of Minstead Trust.

In a challenging landscape for disability charities, this merger is logical. Strength lies in unity. By combining our efforts, we will not just safeguard what makes Blue Apple exceptional, but also create fresh chances to assist more individuals with learning disabilities—especially those who currently have no access to funding.

In unison, these organizations aim to expand access to art venues at both community and countrywide levels, thereby enhancing pathways to jobs for individuals they assist.

Further details about the merger can be accessed via the Blue Apple Theatre website.