Film starring Prior's Court pupil a finalist in awards scheme

A film about how the performing arts has transformed the life of a young adult with autism has made the final shortlist in a charity sector award scheme.

Prior's Court's short film 'Autism, the performing arts and Jamie' has reached the finals of the Charity Film Awards 2023, following a public vote.

The winners will be announced at a ceremony in London in March.

The film explores how the performing arts support those with complex needs.

Jamie Lawrence, 19, joined Prior's Court, in Hermitage, when he was 13-years-old.

In the film, Mr Lawrence's family talk about the challenges of having a relative with complex autism and why they are supporting the centre's 'Let Me Shine' Performing Arts Centre appeal, which is seeking £900,000 of funding.

The film will be scored by a panel of expert judges – including high profile names from retail, education and sustainable enterprises – who will select the winners from each category.

A second public vote will be held in mid-February to determine the winners of the 'People's Choice' categories.

You can visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JCd20KWWe-g&t=31s to view the film, produced by Newbury-based, ECP Video.

Prior's Court aspires to use the performing arts centre for the benefit of people with autism, and their families, nationwide and beyond.