October 26, 2026 - 252 views
A Llandudno theatre group which gives children and young people the chance to build confidence through performing arts has received a visit from North Wales Police and Crime Commissioner Andy Dunbobbin.
The Commissioner visited Conwy and District Kaleidoscope Theatre Company at St David’s Church Hall in Craig-y-Don to see how funding raised through the recovery of criminal assets has helped the group stage productions and provide opportunities for young performers.
The group received support through the Your Community, Your Choice initiative to help cover essential costs for its production of Snow White, which was staged at Theatr Colwyn earlier this year.
The funding helped pay for theatre hire, sound and lighting, allowing the production to go ahead safely and to a high standard for both performers and audiences.
During his visit, Mr Dunbobbin met young members and the team behind the long-established group, as well as seeing preparations for its next production, Robin Hood, which is scheduled for June 2027.
Kaleidoscope holds weekly rehearsals on Friday evenings during term time, bringing together around 55 children and young people aged between five and 18.
The group is open to everyone and does not hold auditions, giving young people the chance to take part regardless of their previous experience or ability.
Its inclusive approach has proved particularly valuable for children with additional learning needs, ADHD and autism. For some families, the sessions provide an opportunity that might otherwise be difficult to access through other extracurricular activities.
Working towards a full-scale stage production helps members develop their communication and teamwork skills, build friendships and gain confidence from performing in front of an audience. Shows also bring together families, friends and residents from across the area.
Mr Dunbobbin said he was pleased to see the impact the group was having on young people and their families.
He said: “It was a pleasure to visit Conwy and District Kaleidoscope Theatre Company and to see the incredible work they do to support young people from across the area.
“Projects such as this provide much more than opportunities to perform on stage. They create a welcoming and inclusive environment where young people can build confidence, develop important life skills and form positive friendships.
“It is inspiring to see how the arts can bring communities together, and I was delighted to learn more about the positive impact Kaleidoscope continues to have on children, young people and their families.”
A spokesperson for Kaleidoscope said the group wanted every child who wished to participate to have the opportunity, regardless of background, ability or previous experience.
The spokesperson said working together on productions such as Snow White helped members develop confidence, resilience and a sense of belonging.
Support from Your Community, Your Choice had helped meet the costs of staging the show and allowed the group to continue offering an affordable and accessible opportunity to young people across the community.
Ten-year-old member Domi described the group as a “real Friday night family”.
“I like coming to Kaleidoscope as we are a real Friday night family and it’s really fun here; everyone is kind and funny and we have a very nice time,” Domi said.
Dylan, 15, said the group had helped him become more confident and valued the way members supported one another.
“The thing I love about Kaleidoscope is that it really feels like it gives everyone an opportunity every week,” he said.
“Our members are always able to talk to each other and support one another and it’s given me a lot of confidence since I joined. Kaleidoscope brings joy to so many people, both the people taking part and the people who come and see the shows.”
Your Community, Your Choice is funded through a combination of money recovered under the Proceeds of Crime Act and funding from the Police and Crime Commissioner. Projects are selected through a public vote and supported by the Commissioner, North Wales Police and the North Wales Police and Community Trust (PACT).
PACT chairman Ashley Rogers said Kaleidoscope demonstrated the value of community-led projects that welcome and encourage young people to participate.
He said the benefits of the weekly sessions extended beyond the stage, providing a supportive place to learn new skills, express themselves creatively and feel part of their community.
North Wales Police Assistant Chief Constable Gareth Evans said providing positive activities for young people was an important part of building safer communities.
He said the group offered a constructive environment where children could develop confidence, teamwork and communication skills alongside supportive peers and role models.
The Friday evening rehearsals also provided an alternative at a time when fewer organised activities might be available, helping to reduce isolation and encourage positive involvement in the local community.
Over the past 13 years, Your Community, Your Choice has awarded more than £700,000 to 234 projects aimed at reducing crime, strengthening communities and supporting the priorities set out in the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Police and Crime Plan.
More information about Conwy and District Kaleidoscope Theatre Company is available at www.kaleidoscopeconwy.co.uk.
