One keen puppeteer is bringing his talents to the Dunedin Fringe Festival with a performance that has been five months in the making.
Budding performer and artist Philip Lomas, from Dunedin, who has mild autism, has many interests, including swimming and indoor rowing, but has recently put his creative flair into writing plays.
Mr Lomas enjoys spending time at Studio2 in South Dunedin.
Studio2 is a small art studio open three days a week for people with disabilities. It provides a supportive place where people can explore their creativity and has almost 40 regular attendees.
Mr Lomas wrote his play for the festival alongside Studio2 arts facilitator Megan Brady.
Previously he performed plays for his friends and family.
Miss Brady said they thought performing in the festival would be an opportunity for Mr Lomas to showcase his talents, as well as engage people with disabilities with the festival.
"I've really enjoyed working with Philip and he has done a great job of bringing his drawings and creations to life,'' she said.
Mr Lomas said he had loved drama and performing for as long as he could remember.
"I love it because it keeps me really calm and keeps my mind thinking''.
Mr Lomas's play follows the adventures and journey of intergalactic creatures on a mission to save their planet.
It will be performed at 2pm on Tuesday 13 and Thursday 15, at the South Dunedin pop-up community hub.
ELLA.STOKES @thestar.co.nz
