Awards put stars with disabilities in spotlight

Stagefright's spooky film will be shown at Forum Cinema during the awards night

Films giving people with learning disabilities a "time to shine" are to be celebrated at an awards ceremony.

The third annual Foscars will screen four short films made by groups at The Forum Cinema in Hexham, Northumberland, on Friday night before handing out prizes, including for best actor and best comedy performance, to its stars.

One of the groups taking part is Stagefright, a community interest company which gets people of all ages involved in the arts.

Linda Ferris, who runs it, said the Foscars were the "highlight of the year" for its members.

"It makes them feel absolutely fantastic," she said.

"Who wouldn't love to see themselves on that big screen in front of all those cinema-goers?"

Hannah (right) said acting made her feel happy and relaxed, while her mum Mary said it was a confidence booster

Hannah is one of Stagefright's actors and played a role in the group's film, as well as a mime they recently performed at The Queen's Hall in Hexham.

"It makes me feel really relaxed and it makes me happy," she said.

Hannah's mum, Mary, said being part of the drama group was hugely beneficial for her daughter.

"Part of it is learning how to be with other people – the teamwork side of it," she said.

"Then the performance side of it gives her a lot more confidence. I couldn't be prouder."

Stagefright said its submission this year was a spooky offering - with a twist.

The group's drama facilitator Andrew Healey said filmmaking offered many different roles for people to try.

"Everybody likes different aspects of it," he said.

"If they like the editing, they can get involved in the editing. If they like the scriptwriting, they can get involved in the scriptwriting.

"We make sure that everyone who comes here has something that they love and has their time to shine."