Lisa Whitley’s film

"Putting yourself in that position, open to judgment, is a really big thing" says Lisa, reflecting on the immense pride she feels watching children perform on stage with Heywood’s HeyKids theatre group. It is a journey she understands intimately; having overcome her own childhood struggles with scoliosis and shyness, she knows firsthand that the stage is a place where anyone can "channel whatever you've got going on in a really positive way" and simply be valued for their own unique qualities.

Lisa spent nine years in the cast of HeyKids and remembers her early days when she "started off very much in the background" before gaining the courage to progress. She explains, "I felt a bit more confident to step out and maybe say a line. The more I did that, the more I wanted to do". Through that journey, she discovered hidden talents and a new sense of self-worth, explaining, "I became good at things I didn't know I was good at, and felt like I'd achieved something".

Now, after nearly 30 years with the society, Lisa serves alongside her Hey Kids peers almost as custodians. "I stayed involved because I knew what impact it had had on me, and I can see what it means to them; I feel very passionately about making sure that it continues". For Lisa, theatre has always been more than just the professional productions and performance; it is about the lifelong village that theatre creates to journey alongside the ups and downs of life. "It becomes more than just the show. It becomes that that’s your network, they’re your people".

Beyond the community, she believes the arts are a vital engine for developing skills for life, building teamwork, confidence, and the ability to step out of one’s comfort zone. She believes "the arts are important for human connection" offering an endless potential for anyone brave enough to take what they need from the experience.

In summary she says "I would not be who I am today if it wasn’t for HeyKids. Beyond the stage, it provides the ultimate toolkit for life - instilling the discipline, resilience, and teamwork vital for any career. I am living proof of its impact: HeyKids transformed me from a shy young girl into a confident professional who now trains headteachers, professionals and leads large audiences with ease."

Hey Kids is part of Heywood Amateur Operatic And Dramatic Society, for more info visit:
heywoodaods.co.uk
instagram.com/heywoodaods_official
tiktok.com/@heywoodaods
facebook.com/HeywoodAODS

Watch more stories at : www.heywoodfilms.com
A Cultural Pioneers of Heywood film.