Heart ’n Soul is a dynamic arts organisation offering creative opportunities to people with learning disabilities.

The organisation has pioneered an original and innovative way of working, using contemporary music, theatre and club culture as reference points. A programme of inter-related activities including touring performances, clubs, training, residencies and an extensive programme of workshops, provides a ladder of opportunity for people with learning disabilities to realise their talents and personal potential.
Founded in 1986 and based at The Albany Theatre in London, Heart ’n Soul has developed in a natural way and is driven by the creative energy and shared vision of its members, and the arts and technical specialists who work in partnership with them.

What makes Heart ’n Soul different is that performers, DJs, tutors and technical crew with learning disabilities create their own shows, run their own clubs and co-lead their own workshops reflecting their unique perspectives throughout. The high standard of professionalism in every aspect of the work is underpinned by the quality of the skilled tutors who support the programme.

Audiences are invited to experience a vision, which celebrates life in a way that challenges preconceptions.

We want people to enjoy and express themselves, have fun, and work together to make a difference. We believe that what we are doing is important, potentially life changing and certainly life enhancing!
The key to Heart ’n Soul’s success is in the participants’ sense of belonging, ownership of, and pride in all of our achievements.

We operate both as creators and producers of work, which is about empowerment and the realisation of people’s potential.

Heart ’n Soul’s diverse programme of work encompasses music/theatre workshops, local, national and international touring of original music/theatre productions, cross-artform club events, CD production and distribution, technical training (sound, lighting set up etc..), digital technology and participatory residencies in arts and community venues.
All work is inherently linked to providing pathways to inclusion, for people with learning disabilities, on their terms.

All of our work is designed to have maximum impact, acting as a catalyst and platform for other groups and individuals inspiring them to develop and sustain their work.

We work strategically with various partners on a national level, to initiate sustainable creative opportunities for people with a learning disability.
We take our message and method of working to as many people as possible all over the world. All our work promotes and encourages integration and everyone is welcome.

‘I was quiet but now I speak up, I have more confidence.’
Octopus Club goer

‘It means a lot to me. It’s what I like to be. It’s my dream – our dream.’
Pino Frumiento – Heart ’n Soul founder member

‘It’s when you listen to funky music and let your hair down. It’s about friends and good times. It’s the one and only time you can go wild.’
Lizzie Emeh – Heart ’n Soul company member

‘All the people love Heart ’n Soul.’
Danny Smith – Heart ’n Soul company member

‘The best club in London.’
Mat Fraser

‘Heart ’n Soul are a group that say what they think with music, drama and dance. When you are down and depressed their music makes
you feel strong enough to get back on your feet again. The music comes alive in your heart and in your soul.’
Paul Pullen – self advocate