Neurodiverse Stars Unite for an Epic 'This Is Me' Music Video!

Inter Theatre CIC, an inclusive theatre company based in Hanley, Stoke-on-Trent, is preparing to create a music video after receiving special permission from Disney. The group, founded by Steve Mitchell, was inspired by his brother who has both learning and physical disabilities. Steve wanted to create a space where people with different abilities could express themselves through music and drama. Now, the group is excited to record their own version of 'This Is Me,' a popular song from The Greatest Showman, and share it on YouTube.

Steve Mitchell explained that the goal of the project is to help people appreciate and value each other, especially those who are neurodiverse. Neurodiversity refers to people who have different ways of thinking, learning, or behaving, such as those with autism or other conditions. Steve said, 'We want to take people on a path through music, drama, and interaction to a point where people realize we need to value each other. ' Since starting the project, other choirs have shown interest in joining. Now, more than 200 people are involved in filming and recording for the video. The final product will be a large collage of all the participants, showing support for the neurodiverse community.

One of the theatre group’s long-time members is Ruth Walker. Ruth was born with meningitis, which affected her ability to speak, and she uses a wheelchair. Despite these challenges, Ruth has been performing with the group since it began. She recently sang her first solo in a performance of Jesus Christ Superstar. Ruth admitted she was nervous about her speech, but the experience boosted her confidence. 'When we did Jesus Christ Superstar, I did a solo and that was the first time, and my speech was fine,' she said. The group also plans to include sign language in their music video, making it accessible to even more people. Inter Theatre CIC hopes their project will show that everyone has value and unique skills, and that their music video will inspire others to be more understanding and supportive of people with different abilities.