North Belfast Drama Scheme in Memory of Julie Maxwell Lewis Inspires Youth

A cross-community drama summer scheme in North Belfast is inspiring the next generation of creative talent while honouring the memory of beloved local actress Julie Maxwell Lewis.

Julie, a well-known figure across Northern Irish theatre and a star of BBC Northern Ireland's comedy Soft Border Patrol, tragically passed away in 2019 following a sudden heart attack. In her memory, her sister Stacey McCann established the Julie Maxwell Lewis (JML) Bursary to help young people from North Belfast pursue careers in film, television, and the performing arts.

Now in its second year, the JML drama summer scheme took place in the Tiger's Bay area from August 10 to 14, welcoming children aged between eight and 16. The week-long programme was led by actors Neil Keery and Louise Mathews, both close friends of Julie, who guided participants through improvisation and scriptwriting exercises, culminating in a showcase performance for family and friends.

Attendance nearly doubled this year, reflecting the strong appetite for accessible arts opportunities in the community. Neil Keery highlighted the importance of opening doors for working-class children, particularly given ongoing challenges with arts funding. He noted that the initiative provides funding for young people entering further education in the arts while introducing newcomers to performance in an encouraging environment.

For their final showcase, the participants created their own 'JML TV' broadcast, writing and staging original adverts, news reports, an episode of Casualty, and scenes inspired by Matilda. Beyond acting skills, leaders emphasised that the programme equips young people with valuable life skills, including public speaking and self-confidence.

Local participants shared their enthusiasm for the scheme. Joshua, who returned for a second year, described the experience as great fun, allowing young people to create their own shows. Charlotte, who first experienced drama through the scheme last year, shared that it sparked a lasting passion, leading her to join other local performing arts groups.

Alongside the bursary and summer scheme, Julie's family successfully fundraised to install four life-saving defibrillators across Belfast. Originally aiming to secure two devices, overwhelming support allowed them to place four units at locations close to Julie's heart, including The Sunflower, The American Bar, The Lyric Theatre, and South Bank Studios.