Inclusive Theatre

Deafblind UK has teamed with imagine if and Face Front to tell you all you need to know about inclusive theatre.

What is inclusive theatre?

Inclusive theatre is theatre where everyone is invited to take part regardless of ability. Inclusive theatre companies work to ensure everyone feels supported and welcome in taking part in performing arts.

How could I benefit?

Performing with disabilities presents a unique set of challenges, which can be overcome in inclusive theatre productions. Some ways in which inclusive theatre can be more accessible for performers may include; accessible rehearsal spaces, costumes and diversity in casting.

The audience will also benefit from the inclusivity and accessibility of such performances. Performances may make use of audio description using headphones, sign interpreters, closed captions or braille.

It’s not only specific theatres or companies that are offering services like these. The National Theatre has started to include ‘relaxed performances’, audio-described and signed performances into their programmes.

Where can I find out more?

imagine if theatre was founded in 2015 and is known for creating unashamedly honest theatre that explores social issues for intimate audiences.

imagine if aim to place those without a voice at the forefront of each production. Going from strength to strength over the past six years, imagine if’s work has received acclaim and support from the BBC, Screen Yorkshire and Sir Ian McKellen.

For more information on imagine if, you can visit their website here.

Face Front are a North London based theatre company, founded in 1998. Priding themselves in their ‘disability-led’ work, Face Front “start from a place of accessibility and inclusion … not [treating it] as something to consider when you’ve finished”.

Face Front run a number of drama groups, including the intergenerational drama group: InterACTion, made up of people aged between 13 and 96, with a mix of genders, ethnicities and disabilities – including deafness and blindness.

For more information on Face Front and their work, click here, email [email protected] or call 0208 350 3461.