“Bas Vegas will be an iconic film for Basildon”
Posted on Fri 05 August 2011
Case study: London Bus Theatre Company awarded £213,630 over 3 years
“Without this project I don't know where I would be or what I would be doing now.”
X, a local resident, beneficiary and now panel member.
The aim of the London Bus Theatre Company (LBTC) is to improve the quality of life for local residents through drama-based activities aimed at developing the social life and literacy skills of disadvantaged people in the Fair Share Trust area. LBTC are working with the local community on a ground-breaking film with local residents involved as actors and crew members.
Most beneficiaries first heard about the project through the local paper which advertised for actors to audition for a locally produced film.
(LBTC) encourage people of all ages to get involved. X says, “They are literally taking young and old people, who are down on their luck, and turning their lives around. Basildon in Essex is considered a rough area, where everyone thinks you are a thug or part of a gang or just a general trouble maker who will never amount to anything and probably end up in jail. I think this project will show the whole country that not all young people from rough areas are thugs and that many young people who have dreams and ambitions in life, can achieve great things.”
The project has also attracted older residents. Y saw the advert and after 10 years of retirement, "fancied trying something new. I had been interested in acting since I was young and this seemed like a good time to pursue this interest. I also enjoy being involved in the community and previously worked as a youth leader." Y is 65 and was initially concerned he may be too old. But went along to the auditions and was delighted to be cast in the part of Z. He says "Bas Vegas will be an iconic film for Basildon as all of the actors are local and largely inexperienced. It has created great excitement for my family and friends, they are very inquisitive about how the filming is going and are looking forward to the premier."
The project is giving all people from this area the opportunity to develop skills and confidence which will help them in later life. Alongside the film LBTC have started a regular Drama Club which has been hugely successful and it is hoped will be the legacy of the project.