'Inspirational' group win prestigious national award

An inspirational performing arts group based in Bootle have won a prestigious national talent award after they 'stole the hearts' of the public.

The New Centre Stage Drama Group (NCSG) is a unique initiative offering care supported individuals the opportunity to express themselves, build confidence and ultimately achieve their personal goals via drama, music, and dance.

NCSG brought home a win at the Care Sector’s Got Talent finals 2024 - a platform for individuals who live (or spend time within social care) to share their hidden talents and create unforgettable experiences. This showcase is an event which not only promotes creativity and self-expression, but also serves as an outlet for supporting mental well-being within the care sector.

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The performers within the group are brought together by New Directions which is a leading provider of adult social care services. New Directions has been operating since 2007 and deliver a wide range of opportunities and support across the borough.

One of the primary objectives of New Direction is to foster well-being and social inclusion for adults of all ages, enabling individuals to live happier, healthier and more fulfilling lives. This is achieved through a number of projects including New Centre Stage.

They performed a Copacabana set-piece at the awards show which was self-produced and crafted by all the highly talented performers and staff - highlighting their teamwork and love for drama. Their captivating song and dance routine went onto win the public vote and bring home the cash prize.

New Centre Stage Activities Lead, Vicky Bennett said: "I firmly believe that the people who come to New Centre Stage deserve to showcase their talents.

"They are a fantastic and talented group of people. So, we were deeply honoured to be invited to perform on such a grand stage and are extremely proud of all that we accomplished."

The ECHO paid the group a visit last month whilst they were working on the Copacabana production. The team at New Centre Stage gave us a personal performance of Willy Russell's, Blood Brothers.

John has been attending NCSG for a number of years and, by his own admission, loves every minute of it. On the day we visited he played the role of Eddie and performed the end scene were his character is accidentally shot by his brother.

John is quick to talk about his role within the group and jokes about being the 'best team player'. However, he deftly switches up and talks movingly about what the group and performing means to him and cites an example from the Blood Brothers show. He said: "When Vicky was singing the song I really felt the story and it was quite upsetting but really powerful.

"But overall I just feel a lot of confidence being up there"

This is a sentiment which causes universal agreement amongst the group with each person nodding their head in acknowledgement of what John has said.

It is clear the group brings belonging and confidence to the members and allows them to challenge themselves and develop new skills.

Vicky points to the progress of group member Liz. She said "When Liz first came, she wasn't very confident and didn't want to go on stage or do certain things.

"After a few weeks she threw herself into everything and absolutely loves it. She's amazing."

The group continue to come up with new ideas and plan new projects so keep a look out for more news on their upcoming performances HERE.

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