Empowering Young Learning Disabled Actors Through The Story of Us

In the heart of every individual lies a story waiting to be told, a narrative that defines their unique journey through life. At Peer Productions, we believe in amplifying the voices of those who need to be heard and especially those of young learning-disabled actors and creatives. Through the generous support of Arts Council England, our project, "The Story of Us," has embarked on a mission to empower our Peer Employment Pathway actors to share their narratives with the world.

Our journey has been a profound learning curve, filled with challenges and triumphs as we navigate the delicate balance of empowering these young artists whilst maintaining their mental wellbeing.

Innovative Approaches

The Story of Us showcases a myriad of innovative approaches which we have developed to empower our young performers. One pivotal decision was the integration of subtitles into the entirety of our show. By placing a second screen within view of the actors, we eliminated the pressure of memorising lines, allowing our actors to focus on their performance. This not only enhances accessibility for our audience but also liberates our performers to express themselves more authentically.

In our quest for accessibility, we've also explored mixed media, incorporating pre-recorded audio and video sequences into the project. This not only enriches the depth of our production but also reduces the cognitive load on our performers, allowing them to focus more on delivery and expression. In our filmed sections we were able to direct each tiny section of the performance enabled less experienced performers to retain direction and deliver their best performances. We also implemented an autocue system, which gave us precise control over the pace of the subtitles and we were able to tailor this to suit each individual actor's needs. This bespoke approach ensured that performers could concentrate on their performances not just on retaining lines. However, this endeavor proved to be a significant challenge. The sheer scale of the project resulted in a QLab project with no less than 960 cues in a 1 hour show, a testament to the complexity and meticulous planning required to execute our vision effectively.

Stretching the individual without stretching too much

Empowering young performers while safeguarding their mental health is a delicate balancing act. Many of our participants have expressed frustration at being underestimated in the past, relishing the opportunity to be challenged. However, stepping into uncharted territory can be daunting. As we delved deeper into the project, we began to recognise the importance of providing support structures that nurture growth without overwhelming our performers.

In addition to innovative approaches such as our subtitling system and autocue set up for filmed elements, we've implemented additional support measures to prioritise the mental well-being of our young creatives. One-to-one sessions with staff ensure that even as they immerse themselves in the project, their mental health remains paramount. These sessions offer a safe space for performers to express concerns, seek guidance, and receive personalised support.

Furthermore, we've introduced the option for performers to request specific access materials tailored to their individual needs. Whether it's specialised resources, accommodations, or assistance, our team is dedicated to ensuring that every participant can fully engage with the project while feeling supported and valued.

Theatre and Activism

The Story of Us is more than just a performance; it's a testament to the resilience and creativity of young learning-disabled actors and creatives. Through this project, we've witnessed the transformative power of storytelling, transcending barriers and amplifying voices that deserve to be heard. As we continue to navigate this journey, we remain committed to empowering our performers while prioritising their mental health and well-being. Together, we rewrite their narrative, one story at a time.

This project transcends the realms of traditional theatre; it is a potent blend of performance and activism. Designed to speak truth to power, our production challenges the decision-makers who often dictate the lives of these young individuals. While our public performance on Friday is nearly sold out, we extend a heartfelt invitation to join us for our matinee performances. These special shows, designed for professionals in the field, offer a unique opportunity to witness the transformative power of storytelling. Whether you're a seasoned professional or simply passionate about inclusivity, we welcome you to join us at the Fiery Bird community venue at 2 pm on Wednesday and Thursday this week. To reserve tickets, please contact alice@peerproductions.co.uk.