With this approach, it is not surprising to learn that anyone may join The Mob, whatever their abilities or disabilities and there is no need for an audition to become part of this unique troupe. 

Sandra Hohol, the group's Press Officer, said: “It is not just another drama club, with young acting hopefuls wishing to get noticed and go on to better things.  Some youngsters may not appear to have problems on the outside, but underneath they may be suffering anxiety problems, have schizophrenia or behavioural problems.  The children come from different backgrounds, and some have disabilities such as Down's Syndrome and ADHD and do not get the chance to get involved in the performing arts under normal circumstances, at school and drama clubs, unless they can prove they are good.  With The Mob they do not have to prove anything.  They all get a chance and do not have to be the best. They do their best and that is what matters.”

Despite loving what they do, the development and growth of the group membership has created some problems - in particular the group is running out of space and is in need of a permanent home.

Over the Easter period, the group performed its version of Cinderella “with a difference” at Hunstanton's Princess Theatre and used these performances to raise awareness of their need for new funding.  The group is self-funding, raising money from local events, shows and performances, plus donations.  However, funds raised are minimal and the demand on these monies often exceed funds raised.  The only things that come free are the services given by the committee, volunteers and parents who back the company.

“We need our own premises with an office, plus storage for costumes and props,” said Mrs Hohol.

“But the biggest requirement, which would make a dream come true, would be to have our own theatre - a special place for the disabled to access all areas.

“Such a theatre does not exist in this area with all these facilities and it would give such wonderful opportunities to those who would like to get involved in the performing arts.”

This ambitious plan needs someone with deep pockets to help build such a theatre. It's proving an uphill task attracting local and nationwide donors, despite words of encouragement from the likes of Sir Richard Branson - but every little helps.

“Who knows, there may be a Richard Branson out there who can see a future in the children and what we do,” said Mrs Hohol.

Even funding backdrops for shows such as the recent Easter performances is tight.  The Cinderella backdrops were hired thanks to parents and members putting their hands in their own pockets to contribute towards the cost of hiring four ready-made backdrops for the production - at £100 each. 
This helps make savings on the cost of buying, or making, these vital props.

Professional expertise steers the group in the shape of the group's founder and artistic director, Les Miles, who trained at the Chicken Shed Theatre in North London. Together with her partner, Tim Rock, the group's music director, Les was keen to provide drama opportunities for young people in and around Hunstanton.

Each production has an original script and score with previous productions including Snow White, Searching for Santa, Babes in the Wood, A Christmas Carol and Snow White. In addition, The Mob have put on Review Shows.