Skyzdalimit get ready for retelling of romantic classic

A GROUP of learning disabled and autistic actors have already began getting in character ahead of their big summer show.

Skyzdalimit have started rehearsals for their new production, ‘Love Me Love Me Not’, which they will be performing in both Omagh and Derry this June.

One person who cannot wait for the group to take to the stage in Omagh’s Strule Arts Centre (June 21 and 22) and Derry’s Waterside Theatre (June 29) is chair of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council, Councillor Thomas O’Reilly, who has made the group his chosen charity for 2023-2024.

“I was pleased to have the opportunity to see the cast rehearse for their new show. They were all enthusiastically practicing their lines and dance routines under the direction of Pearse.

“If you haven’t seen a Skyzdalimit performance before, I would encourage you to attend one of the upcoming dates – you won’t be disappointed. If you have seen the group perform previously, you won’t want to miss this latest production.”

“I would like to take the opportunity to wish Pearse and the cast every success for their new show and I look forward to attending one of the performances.”

The show, inspired by Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, is a musical comedy about a teenage romance between a nerdy, bookish girl, Caroline, and a popular sporty guy, Dwain.

As well as being fun and entertaining, the show also conveys an important message that we should look beyond appearances and stereotypes and appreciate that everyone is unique.

It also highlights that love can be unexpected and that happiness can be found through genuine connections.

Alongside their rehearsals, Skyzdalimit recently completed a successful 14-week wellbeing programme, supported by the Public Health Agency through the Clear Project.

As part of the programme the group participated in karaoke and Zumba combining their singing and dancing talents with being active and trying new activities to promote the five steps to wellbeing.

l Tickets for the performances of Love Me Love Me in now are currently on sale at each of the venues and on their websites.  To keep up to date with Skyzdalimit and their forthcoming performances, follow them on Facebook and X/Twitter.