Lung Ha's turns 21

On 3 October 2005, Lung Ha’s, Scotland’s leading learning disability theatre company, will be celebrating its 21st birthday.

In 1984 Lung Ha’s was the only theatre company in Scotland providing opportunities for adults with learning disabilities to become actively involved in the performing arts.

A pioneer in the field of arts and disability, the company has gone from strength to strength - producing over 40 original stage productions and making its mark as one of the most avant-garde companies in Scottish Theatre.

'We were told "you’re crazy, it’ll never work." So we did it. I wonder where the next 21 years will take Lung Ha’s.' (Richard Vallis, Hon. President and founder)

The company has a membership of around 40 actors with learning disabilities who rehearse on a weekly basis towards the production of two or three plays a year. At least one original piece, involving the whole company, is put on stage annually in an Edinburgh venue such as the Traverse Theatre or Edinburgh Festival Theatre. With a smaller cast, the company also tours Britain and Europe.

Lung Ha’s distinguishes itself by the quality of its work, which marries theatrical invention, technological creativity, and poetic writing.  It also succeeds in challenging its audience while still being accessible to all.

Jim Tough, Director of Arts at the Scottish Arts Council says, 'over the last 21 years Lung Ha’s has become an established company taking up an important position centre stage in the Scottish arts scene. We are delighted to congratulate this artistically ambitious company on their 21st birthday. The success of Lung Ha’s is indicative of the growing and developing arts and disability sector which the Scottish Arts Council is proud to support.'