From page to the stage

Advance customer, Kieron, who lives at one of our supported living schemes in Hackney, is hugely passionate about storytelling and has taken his love for theatre to the next level by writing, directing and starring in his very own pantomime performance, which raised £480 for a local charity.

Kieron began writing his “Red Riding Hood and Friends” pantomime in 2014, and with the help and support of family, friends and his wider Advance support network, was ready to take the story to the stage in 2020. However, the Covid-19 pandemic put a halt to the plans, and the performance was delayed until April 2023.

“I’ve always been creative,” says Kieron. “I used to put on plays and was part of a drama group when I was younger. I loved creating the characters for Little Red Riding Hood and Friends.

“When we were finally able to put on the show, I was very proud to see my story come to life. My family, friends and fellow stage stars were all fantastic, it was a real team effort and made me really happy,” Kieron added.

Kieron, who receives support from Advance, decided to raise money for the Huddlestone Centre, a community group for young people with disabilities and learning difficulties that he attended growing up, which encouraged his creativity and passion for performance.

And Kieron’s love of storytelling doesn’t stop with “Red Riding Hood and Friends” – he’s already begun writing his next play and is also taking up the role of Editor at the Hackney newsletter for Advance customers in the area.

“I really enjoy getting my friends and community involved in performance,” Kieron said. “It is a perfect way to spend time together and putting on a show is so much fun!”