240 - Donation to Under the Stars charity - February 2026

Donation 240 is in response to a lovely nomination from one of our members, who asked if we could help the local charity Under the Stars. https://underthestars.org.uk/ Under the Stars supports learning disabled adults access all things music and theatre. It aims high to help its members access these areas of arts that are taken for granted by the general population, running secure, accessible for all nightclub nights (used to be at the Leadmill now at the Foundry at the University). They have taught 25 learning disabled adults how to DJ and they run the night. They develop and support bands and aim high - the Sparkle Sisters sang at tramlines this year. They also run theatre shows throughout the year allowing the young learning disabled adults to develop the whole show and show their skills and talents that are often inaccessible in usual theatre / drama groups. Our member asked if we could help with fundraising for their upcoming projects including a show called Fairytales Reincarnated and the next few DJ nightclub nights. Our £500 donation will be a big help to create costumes, hire lighting, train more DJ’s and support the young disabled adults with pursuing their dreams of performing, music, drama and enjoying nights out. We loved this nomination and finding out a bit more about Under the Stars - as their website explains: ‘People with learning disabilities and/or autism are often unseen, unheard and underestimated. Under the Stars seek to challenge society’s expectations by raising the voices and visibility of our participants so that they feel powerful, valued, included, and respected. We use the power of music and theatre to empower people, develop their skills, unlock their potential and build their confidence. They become better actors, musicians, dancers and DJs, they make friends, and know they belong somewhere exciting.’ We were really pleased to be able to help Under the Stars continue to offer this fabulous provision, which must make such a difference to so many and we wish all these artists all the best with their productions and hope they have many wonderful nights out!