Disability visibility: on stage and in the audience

The intersection of disability and theatre combines access and art. Theatre, at its best, shares stories of the human experience yet traditionally stories of disability have been excluded. In an effort to include and increase disability visibility in the theatre world, select theatre companies have created accessible opportunities, training programs, and performance content for people with disabilities. I will explore the range of disability theatre that exists today by looking at accomplished companies in the field including Graeae Theatre Company, Hijinx Theatre, and Nicu's Spoon Theatre Company. In addition to inclusive theatre on stage, inclusive audience practices will be introduced in part by looking at the work of Jess Thom and her play Backstage at Biscuit Land. By looking at the successes of these existing companies and techniques, I will assemble a vision for a San Francisco theatre company specializing in inclusive theatre practices.