Law Firm Transforms Its Boardrooms Into Theatre For Disabled Youngsters

By Suzanne Rutter

Parents and carers of children with disabilities looking for the perfect way to keep youngsters entertained this summer were invited to see a popular children’s book brought to life by the Blunderbus Theatre Company.

Puppeteers, musicians and actors from the internationally-acclaimed theatre troupe brought their family-friendly production of ‘How to Catch a Star’ to law firm Irwin Mitchell’s Wellington Place offices in Leeds.

The play is based on the classic children’s book by award-winning author, Oliver Jeffers, and tells the tale of a boy who embarks on an incredible journey across land, sea and skies in search of his own star.

The event was sponsored by Irwin Mitchell and organised by the local SNAPS and Little Hiccups charities, which are run by parents and carers of children with special needs and disabilities.

More than 90 parents and children aged three to seven-years-old, many of which are clients of the firm, enjoyed the interactive show which included lots of music, puppetry and interesting props.

Rachelle Mahapatra, a partner and medical law specialist at Irwin Mitchell in Leeds, said: “We do so much work helping parents to access treatment and rehabilitation for their children after an accident or injury so they can get their lives back on track. A big part of that is doing the normal everyday things we often take for granted, such as going to the theatre and having fun so we are really proud to bring such an amazing theatre experience to local children.

“The Blunderbus Theatre Company were absolutely fantastic and the interactive element of their show really brought the story to life.

“We loved transforming our boardrooms into a theatre for the day and there was a real party atmosphere as parents and carers mingled and the youngsters enjoyed the lunch and goody bags we provided. We hope the uplifting story really inspired the children who came along.”

Little Hiccups is a Leeds-based support group set up by two mums, who both have children with special needs. The charity helps arrange various activities for youngsters with disabilities such as arts and crafts events, day trips plus music therapy and social events for parents.

Linsay Medica said: "Little Hiccups and SNAPS have the same passion for offering support to children with a disability or additional needs and their families. We wanted to work together to offer an exciting, stress-free and entertaining day which would bring together families and make some magical memories for our special children. It was a really fun event and once again we are grateful to Irwin Mitchell for supporting both our charities."

Click here for further information about Irwin Mitchell's links to the Community.