Disabled + Disobedient is an event programme which celebrates deaf, disabled and neurodivergent artists. Described by one audience member as "a masterpiece of inclusivity, creativity and joy", Disabled + Disobedient was created in 2024 by Brighton Dome and our former In-House Artist, performer and theatre maker Erin Enfys. Past programming has included sellout cabaret shows, community-focused events and supported artist residencies.
The Artist Development Lab welcomed five artists from a variety of disciplines, including poetry, performance, fine art, cabaret and music. “We know that training options for disabled and neurodivergent artists are often inaccessible,” said Erin, “so we’ve put together two days run by and for disabled people.” The artists included Ryder Bones, Jamal Harewood, Sophoenixx, Billie Gold and Robin Kathaas.
The workshops focused on different aspects of performance and creative development, including movement, voice, devising and creation skills, and being a self-producing artist. The sessions were run by four experienced arts practitioners, including award-winning spoken word performer and writer Subira Joy and dance theatre artist Stuart Waters.
"We are proud to be reaching a two year milestone of Disabled + Disobedient activity. This strand of work enables us to platform exciting deaf, disabled and neurodivergent talent across artforms in multi-act cabaret settings, and aid artists to build their craft, explore their unique artistic perspectives, and build supportive creative communities and networks.
The Artist Development Lab has emerged from identifying a gap where deaf, disabled and neurodivergent artists are committed to developing their artistic practice, but many traditional pathways for training and development are inaccessible to them. It has been a joy to host the selected artists and see them stretch out into their creative practice and build connections across skills-based workshops, advice sessions, and thoughtful moments for reflection."— Abs Reeve, Brighton Dome programmer
“Disabled + Disobedient's Artist Development Lab [is] pioneering in expanding the creative practice of neurodivergent, deaf and disabled artists,” said Billie Gold, Artist Lab participant. “The things that I will be implementing into my personal practice are priceless. Creating a space for us is crucial to the artistic landscape.”
Want to be a part of what’s coming next? Sign up for the next Disabled + Disobedient cabaret! Find out more here.