West Midlands talent competition for people with autism

A West Midlands College is looking for local talent to show case the musical talents of people in the community with learning difficulties, this Spring.

Jordan Statham, a student from the Glasshouse College, has been busy planning and organising an evening to showcase the talents of local people in the area who have some form of learning disability.

Jordan himself has autism and he is passionate about raising awareness of the hidden talents of people who have similar conditions. Jordan attends Glasshouse College which is a specialist independent college that supports young adults with social, behavioural and learning difficulties. The college provides a unique craft based learning environment, on the former Royal Doulton site. Students enjoy learning practical and creative skills in keeping with the heritage of the area. Auditions: Jordan recently came up with the idea as he himself is an accomplished musician and he is well aware of the talent that is within the community.

Auditions will be held on Monday 4th March from 6pm until 9pm and again on Saturday 9th March from 11am until 3pm. The auditions will be held in the Glasshouse Arts Centre which is on the Glasshouse College site. All people with learning difficulties who think they have a musical talent are urged to audition for the show as it is going to be a big celebration of the talents of Stourbridge and the surrounding area.

The final celebration is due to be on 11th May and all proceeds from the show will be donated to Autism West Midlands who are also supporting the event by helping to set up a personal display of peoples views on Autism.

Jordan says “I want to make sure that people realise that even though some one has a learning disability such as autism, they can still contribute to society in a creative and meaningful way”.

Gail Hickman, Enrichment Manager at the college says “ Jordan is passionate about this project and has already worked so hard on it. He has found funding to put on the event and has the full support of the college to make sure the event is a success. All we need now is the talent to come forward!”.

If you feel you would like to audition for this gig (or recommend someone you know) then please telephone either Gail Hickman or Ami Blakemore on 01384 399459 or 07805 304286.