A DRAMA project in Bushey aimed at breaking down the social barriers between children with special needs and their peers climaxed with a "wonderful" performance on Friday.

More than 200 budding thespians from eight different schools displayed their acting talent during the Bushey Triangles Theatre Project, set up by Bushey schools in conjunction with the nationally renowned Chicken Shed Theatre Company.

The enterprise was embraced by seven primary, secondary and special needs schools: Bushey Meads in Coldharbour Lane; Bushey Hall in London Road; Bournehall JMI in Bournehall Avenue; Bushey Heath JMI in The Rutts, Sacred Heart in Merry Hill Road; Meadow Wood in Coldharbour Lane and Ashfield JMI in School Lane.

Pupils from Colnbrook Primary School in Hayling Road, South Oxhey, also took part as many of the children come from Bushey.

Each school was organised into triangles consisting of a special, secondary and at least two primary schools. Each triangle then participated in a minimum of ten integrated workshops under the watchful eye of members of the Chicken Shed Theatre Company.

The actors' hard work culminated in two theatre performances entitled the Rhythm of Life at Bushey Hall on Friday.

Headteacher of Meadow Wood, Mr John Abbison, said: "The project saw the breakdown of social barriers between those labelled as having special needs and their peers.

"It promised to be one of the most exciting and high profile collaborations between schools in the borough and it was, with wonderful dancing and performances.

"Pupils and staff worked together in a way which treated everyone as an equal. The children all performed as if they had always acted on stage together.

"The project was designed to transform shy children into confident actors and give them an experience that will change their lives in a very positive way.

"One of the aspects of the project that shone through was the enormous confidence of each child. They really enjoyed themselves because they were confident in what they were doing and were supporting each other.

"It was spine-tingling stuff and we hope to do it for more children in the future."

The Mayor and Mayoress of Hertsmere, David and Glenys Banks, and Hertsmere borough councillors, Michael and Miki Colne, were among the audience

Councillor Miki Colne said: "The enthusiasm the children showed was absolutely wonderful and it really was a moving experience.

"Michael and I are fully supportive of this project because it brings together youngsters of all ages and abilities. It was a tremendous evening and a unique experience."

Phase one of the project was intended to be the driving force behind phase two, which is to set up a permanent youth theatre group in Hertsmere in the year 2000 .

Mr Abbison added: "Phase two of the project used to be a dream, but now I can confidently say it will become a reality.

"Once it gets into full swing, Chicken Shed will take a back seat and the secondary school children who took part in phase one will take on the responsibility of supporting the other actors.

"It is hoped the emphasis of phase two will see a shift from being a school-based project to a community-based project."

Phase one cost £20,000 and Hertsmere Borough Council, West Hertfordshire Health Authority, Eastern Arts Board, and Saracens Rugby Club are all given donations.

Because phase two is still in its early stages, the cost of the project is still unclear. Donations can be made to treasurer, Mrs Penny Price, on 0181-386 4411.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.