York Disability Pride Cabaret

York Disability Pride Cabaret

Friday 1st December, 630-9pm, York St John, Temple Hall. 

Compered by comedian and activist Laurence Clark of ‘Independence’ and ‘Spastic Fantastic’ fame the evening presents a showcase of York’s disabled people’s artistic talent. The evening will begin with a short reception at 630pm with opening speeches from Fiona Thompson, Vice Chair of York St John, Becca Cooper, Chair of York People First and Ashley Mason, City of York Councillor. Performances begin at 7pm and include;

 Take Flight by Converge Creative Movement – Converge Creative Movement and Dance have been working with words, poems and images as a starting point for this piece of choreography. We were particularly inspired by this line… “I want to fly free from all that keeps me….in captivity”

 Chronic Poetry by Lucie Ware – York based writer and artist. She communicates with wit and simmering fury about stigma and self-expression through the fog of illness. She has ME. More pertinently, Lucie can drive her mobility scooter with her feet. See her blog ‘From ME to You’: dearbedbug.blogspot.co.uk

 Music by 1/2/6 – a 4 piece band which formed in 2016 as part of a Converge ensemble side project. Their music is their own original, composed written work and brings together each individuals styles and interests ranging from Rock, Metal, Blues, Indie, Alternative, Classical and experimental.

 Dicken’s Christmas Carol By Once Seen Theatre – An abridged version of the dark victorian tale of an old miser who is visited by the Ghosts of Christmas past, present and future. Once Seen Theatre Company, a part of the self advocacy group York People First, present a compelling take on this classic and have embedded a personal and political twist that reflects on the barriers, and also the aspirations of people with learning difficulties.

 Any Mother Would by Next Door But One – A semi-autobiographical play exploring how a mother navigates her son’s Cerebral Palsy, and how living with a disability has changed who she is as much as it has her son. There is love, laughter and frustration, but when it’s all you’ve ever known is it possible to think of a life without disability…and would you even want to? written and directed by Matt Harper-Hardcastle, performed by Jane Allanach and James Knight.

 Independence by Laurence Clark – Everybody seems to want their independence right now, but be very careful what you wish for! Laurence spins his tales of adolescence, love and Harry Potter, discovering he doesn’t have to be Superman and do everything. But life sometimes throws up the unexpected when you depend on someone else to fasten your jeans for you. Laurence Clark is an internationally-acclaimed comedian, writer and actor who has cerebral palsy. Independence was shown at the Edinburgh fringe this year and is currently on tour around the country.

This event is free and will include BSL interpreting. We plan for an inclusive event, but please do let us know if you need us to do anything to facilitate access. If you require accessible transport contact Stephen 07951050153.

Book your free ticket here – https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/disability-pride-cabaret-york-fri-1st-dec-2017-tickets-39451517551

At Temple Hall, York St John, Lord Mayor’s Walk, York YO31 7EX.

Organised by York Independent Living Network, York Human Rights City and Explore York. Funded by the York Committee at JRF.