In our search for things to do we came across the Graeae Theatre Company that
‘is a force for change in world-class theatre – breaking down barriers, challenging preconceptions and boldly placing Deaf and disabled artists centre stage.’
They famously performed at the London 2012 Paralympic Games Opening Ceremony and are a touring theatre company. Their productions range from contemporary classics to musicals to outdoor circus. The cast includes deaf and disabled people and their Bradbury rehearsal studios in East London are a beacon of accessibility. They also have Deaf and disabled leaders who run workshops and outreach programmes, which are run alongside touring productions.
Graeae are currently in partnership with theatres across the country to support The Who’s TOMMY, the next production by Ramps on the Moon. It will feature a ‘creative use of audio description, captioning and British Sign Language interpretation which will enhance the experience for everyone’.
The dates are:
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New Wolsey Theatre, Ipswich 30 March – 15 April
Nottingham Playhouse 19 April – 29 April
West Yorkshire Playhouse, Leeds 4 May – 13 May
Birmingham Repertory Theatre 17 May – 27 May
Theatre Royal Stratford East, London 7 June – 17 June
Sheffield Theatres 22 June – 1 July
There will also be a return of their acclaimed production of ‘Reasons to be Cheerful’, featuring music from Ian Dury and the Blockheads’, in the Autumn of 2017. If anyone has seen the company do let us know what you think. I for one will be going to Tommy – I remember the original.
