🌟 Why “Big Night Out” Matters: A Film That Could Change How Communities See Disability

Some projects entertain. Others inform. But every so often, a project comes along that has the power to shift attitudes, open conversations, and change how a community understands itself. Happy Dragons Theatre and people First Abergavenny's new short film, Big Night Out, is one of those projects.

Rooted in the lived experiences of adults with learning disabilities, the film is far more than a creative endeavour. It is a statement of visibility, dignity and belonging.

🎥 Why This Film Matters

The project’s Artistic Director and Producer, Rhona Richards, captures the purpose beautifully:

“‘Big Night Out’ is a short film about acceptance, understanding and the joy of dancing with friends. Once edited, we want to show the film as widely as possible, particularly to schools and community groups, to encourage conversations about diversity and inclusion.” — Rhona Richards

Her words reflect the ambition behind the film: not only to tell a story, but to spark dialogue, shift perceptions and celebrate the richness of their lives.

💛 Centring Voices Too Often Ignored

Happy Dragons Theatre has been working closely with members of People First Abergavenny, a group run for and led by adults with learning disabilities. Together, they have devised a script that draws directly from their experiences of being ‘othered’ or socially isolated. It is their words which form the script. Their stories which shape the narrative.

This project celebrates the group’s “talents, dreams, and everything that make them unique and loved”.

🎬 A Story That Reflects Real Lives

The film follows Lewis, a member of People First Abergavenny. Prior to moving to the Town he experienced bullying and discrimination. Going to The Big Night Out—a night when the Auberge nightclub is given over entirely to people with disabilities is a catalyst for change.

For the first time, Lewis feels welcome, makes friends and realises he deserves respect and recognition for his own dreams and ambitions. And he finds the courage to dance—something he loves but previously felt too embarrassed to do.

“The final shot of the film is Lewis dancing. Everyone is dancing.”  A moment of joy and belonging.

🌈 Why This Film Is Needed Now

Projects like Big Night Out matter because they:

• Challenge stereotypes by showing people with learning disabilities as creators, performers and storytellers

• Build understanding by sharing lived experiences directly from those who own them

• Create visibility for people whose stories are often overlooked

• Encourage empathy through narrative

And crucially, the film will spark conversations in the places where they matter most—schools, youth groups, community organisations and local networks.

🎥 A Community Effort With Community Impact

The main cast comes from People First Abergavenny, with supporting cast members from People First Monmouth and Caldicot, and Theatre Wildcatz Brecon. Local groups—including AAOD and Abergavenny Amateur Theatre Group—were  invited to appear as extras.

This collaboration sends a powerful message: Inclusion is not symbolic. It is practical, visible and shared.

🌟 The Impact Will Last Long After Filming Ends

When Big Night Out is screened in schools and community settings, it will:

• Help young people understand disability through real stories

• Encourage conversations about kindness, respect and inclusion

• Challenge assumptions about what people with learning disabilities can do

  
  

The film’s legacy will not be measured only in views or applause, but in the attitudes it shifts, the empathy it builds, and the confidence it gives to those who see themselves reflected on screen. This is why Abergavenny Rotary Club are proud to be one of the sponsors of this unique project.

To find out more about Big night out & Happy Dragons : https://www.happydragonstheatre.co.uk

To find out more about Abergavenny Rotary Club:

Email the Club Secretary, Robert Parker  rvparker4@hotmail.com or Phone 08789 330289.