This pilot research and engagement project has come about after a smaller scale engagement piece with the North East Down Syndrome Centre (NEDS) in Carrickmacross, County Monaghan funded by Creative Ireland. The center is voluntary run and covers the counties of Cavan, Louth, Meath and Monaghan. This project is to engage renowned award-winning artistic company Ceol Connected to develop a multidisciplinary sensory arts programme for children with down syndrome. Ceol Connected has been developing sensory arts programming for the past 5 years targeting children with various disabilities. Following the initial engagement piece with the NEDS, the following needs were identified (a) CPD for creative practitioners in developing programing for these children (b) a multidisciplinary approach in providing opportunities for creative and cultural engagement for these children, (c) more creative and cultural programming for these children.

The project will take elements of the successful Lullaby Leaf which Ceol Connected developed as Theatre company in residence in Draíocht, 2017 which is an immersive, inclusive, and highly participatory theatre experience designed specifically for very young children with additional needs and adapt, adding new strands for children with down syndrome. 

The voice and experience of the child will be central to the creative development of this project. After the developmental and research has been concluded, it will tour centres across the four counties.

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.