The Artlink Central Learning Disability Drama Group screened their exciting adaptation of 'The Tempest' on 29th January. This wonderful production, directed by Karen McGrady-Parker and filmed by Emma Bowen, was accompanied by original music written and performed by the Artlink Central Music Group with Lesley Ann Smith, Tracey Wilson and Ursula Heidecker. Huge credit must also be given to the playwright, Mr William Shakespeare.

Following on from their success, our drama group is now moving on to a new creative venture, using 'Tam O' Shanter' as inspiration for a vibrant animated film. The finished work will be screened soon, so please contact the Artlink Central office if you would like an invitation.

Beginning this month, 'Count me in Tune' is an innovative new project emanating from the partnership between Artlink Central and The Clydesdale Bank plc. Inspired by two existing projects - 'Bank Notes' and 'Count me in', it involves the creation of learning packs which will use music and song to encourage numeracy skills in relation to coins and their value among primary age children with additional support needs.

Through a series of workshops in different schools, the content of the learning packs will be created and then distributed to schools and libraries within the Stirling Council area.

This year’s 'Children in Need' project will be a series of dance workshops, the theme of which will be the elements (Earth, Wind, Fire and Water), which will be explored by school children along with a team of three professional dance artists, accompanied by two professional musicians. This year we are targeting children with more profound needs, with each school taking on an individual element.

The 'Strictly Elemental' workshops will culminate in a ‘Sharing Day’ on the 29th May 2007 at the Albert Halls, Stirling, where all the schools participating (in total ten from Stirling, Falkirk and Clackmannanshire) will come together for a joint performance. Each child will also receive a DVD recording of their achievements on the day.

'Closer to the Edge' - the Artlink Central music group for individuals experiencing mental health issues, joined by musician Dee Faulds, have gone from strength to strength, perfecting their harmonies and performing their own compositions as well as recent popular favourites.

Following a slick performance at the opening of the Artlink Central Annual Exhibition, 'Closer to the Edge' were invited by Community Integrated Care to perform at a large Ceilidh dinner and dance in Dundee. The event, held on 7th February, was arranged to showcase and celebrate CIC's services throughout Scotland.

The group meet every Wednesday at 1.30pm at The Cowane Centre. If you are interested in joining, please contact the Artlink Central office.

The Artlink Central learning disability music group will be performing their Easter concert on Thursday 5th April at 11.15 am in the Theatre at the Cowane Centre.

We are delighted to welcome a new member - Christopher, who, along with the rest of the group of fourteen, will be performing original songs and some old favourites. The group will be joined by musicians Tracy Wilson, Lesley Ann Smith and RSAMD student Amy Watt.

Everyone is welcome to the concert. If you would like to come along, please contact Sarah Pearson for further details

Artlink Central would like to convey huge thanks to the valuable service given by Roy Middleton as former Chairman and active committee member. Roy announced his retirement from the board at the autumn AGM, along with Grant Williams.

We are delighted to welcome our new members: Gillian Bowditch and Bill Thomson. Gillian has already been involved in our major fundraising event, Art off the Rock 2006 and her media skills will be a huge asset in raising our profile through marketing and publicity. Bill has so far been invaluable with his business acumen, contacts, and networking ability.

They join our existing board members, to whom we are continually grateful for their contribution, prudence and support. Current membership of the Artlink Central Management Committee includes:

• Chairman - John Rankin
• Vice Chairman - Jack Sanderson
• Secretary and Treasurer - Steven Strang
• Gillian Bowditch
• Helen Ogilvy
• Carol Seymour
• Anita Smiley
• Bill Thomson