Yesterday (26 June 2018) Harlow Theatre group Razed Roof performed at Harlow Playhouse in front of a very special guest, the Countess of Wessex.

Her Royal Highness was treated to a special showing of Razed Roof’s Trisomy 21 production. Trisomy 21 is a play introduced by Hayley, a young women with down’s syndrome, who looks back at science and also the history of how people with learning disabilities may have been treated in the past and how schools have changed. The show finished with Hayley and friends enjoying each other’s company and all feeling included.

During her visit the Countess of Wessex, who is a Patron of Mencap, met the cast along with Razed Roof’s volunteers, trustees and funders and then took part in two dance routines with the group.

Razed Roof, which is a real success story for Harlow, is an inclusive performing arts group based at the Playhouse. The group is for people with, and without, learning difficulties and disabilities. Razed Roof was awarded the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Services last year. The Countess of Wessex was invited to meet the group by the Lord Lieutenant of Essex.

Annette Lidster, Artistic Director of Razed Roof, said: “It was a privilege for Razed Roof to be asked to perform for HRH Sophie, The Countess of Wessex GCVO, and wonderful that the community were there to support us.

“It was especially great the way that Harlow Council and our partners Harlow Playhouse did everything to make it a perfect day.”