The most noticeable difference about the Performing Arts Centre since our last update is the exterior which is looking a lot like the finished product. It is amazing to be able to see what the building will look like when it is ready for the autistic young people with complex needs that we support to be able to start using it.

Most strikingly, the performing arts-based designs on either end of the building are now in place - dance motifs on the dance studio end:

And musical motifs on the music room end:

Elsewhere, the outdoor learning space is taking shape. This area is crucial for the autistic young people we support who may not feel comfortable in the interior of the performing arts centre but will still be able to access learning outdoors instead.

Back indoors, these retractable doors in the dance studio will have mirrors on them:

They are retractable to support young people who may not wish to be able to see their reflection.

And here is how some of the lighting settings look in the dance studio too (we have a similar set-up in the main performance space):

We're also experimenting with window stickers in the doors of the dance studio, with support from our friends at Apple Print & Creative, to help make the dance studio a place where young people are supported to focus on their sessions.

Though the construction has progressed significantly, this remains an ongoing fundraising project for Prior's Court to support and empower autistic young people with complex needs to access the transformational power of the performing arts.

Find out more about the appeal