It all began in March 2003. Larry Kimm was running a People First group from a basement room in Dumfries NCVS and Cally Phillips was Dramatist in Residence for DGAA. As part of European Year of Disability, Cally sought groups to take part in drama projects in the region. Larry saw her small advert in the local paper - it was the answer to a prayer. He was sure his group would love to do some drama.

Cally adapted Boalian drama games to give the group confidence and basic skills in dramatic technique and expression. Character work was added and the group used improvisation and devising to create unique pieces of dramatic expression.

Seven months later, the group took part in ABILITY DAY. Held at the prestigious venue on the Crichton, they performed their first piece, a five minute drama entitled "King John's Journey" to an audience of over 100 from all over Dumfries and Galloway region. It was a resounding success.

From the very beginning Cally was determined that the work of the group would not be seen as "therapy" but as a training in drama technique as well as a creative outlet for people who often do not get the opportunity to take part in creative activity, and the themes of inclusion, equality and mutual respect have formed and continue to form a core part of the group's values.

In November 2003 ABC itself was established as a voluntary group at the first AGM. Members were eligible to be on the committee and a sense of ownership established. Commitment was the keyword and we are happy to say that we still retain many of the founder members even five years on. ABC stands for "Anti Bullying Campaign" Drama Group. From the very inception, ABC was concerned to explore and deliver drama about the real issues which concern its members. Drama was used for advocacy rather than escapism - but having said that - every session was (and is) filled with laughter!

Starting with a group of about 6 regulars, the NCVS room was never big enough, and after Ability Day, others wanted to join the group. So Cally found them premises at the Brigend Theatre, Dumfries. While the stage was small, and access difficult for those with mobility difficulties, it was exciting for the group to have a real theatre as a "home" base. Some members had never been in a theatre before, but nothing was going to stop them getting up on the stage! There would be no looking back..