‘At Chickenshed there is only one type of people: everyone.’[1]Chickenshed Theatre Company have caught the attention of many, with their fundamental inclusive values. They state that; ‘Our inclusive creative process values all our members as equals. It’s the way we run our theatre company, our youth workshops, our outreach projects and our education programmes. And, one day, it will be the way the world works. That is our vision.’[2][Through Chickenshed’s approach to performing arts, many have been given the opportunity to express themselves through theatre.
Modern society has created a greater awareness to the importance of inclusiveness through media and government legislation. In 2005, The Disability Discrimination Act was revisited and extended to improve the welfare of stately institutions. The act enforces schools to consider the prevention of ‘disabled pupils from being treated less favourably than other pupils.’[3] The implementation of these laws impacted surrounding society and made people understand the importance of inclusiveness. Chickenshed has incorporated these ethics into the company through involving all ages and abilities.
Chickenshed are now renowned as experienced pioneers, having practiced and applied these principle values into their company for over thirty-five years. Chickenshed’s challenge is to both integrate mainstream and special schools and to educate through their on-going outreach programmes.
Some have argued that Chickenshed’s approach and other theatre company’s that promote inclusive ways of working are negligent to the needs of the disabled body. Somers poses the question “Is an intensive rehearsal process conducive to the integration of persons with a disability into theatre art?” [4] In other words, is the rehearsal process a strain for the non-able body? Essentially this question connects to the concept of personalised teaching methods, which emphasises the idea of adapting teaching in accordance with the student’s abilities. Each individual, an able or non-able body deals and works in different ways. As Chickenshed recognises, every disability differs; the strengths and abilities of each individual should be observed and understood, so that previsions can be installed to those requiring support.
Candoco Dance Company illustrates, through their success that companies which promote inclusive performing arts can thrive. There website expands; ‘We want to push boundaries of Dance & disability using contemporary dance in order to broaden people's perception of what dance is and who can dance.’ [5] This company has stood by their ethos and believed that its members are the key to inspiring their work. This company has revolutionised society’s mode of thinking and played an essential role in supporting equality amongst all. Additionally, Candoco Dance Company has given hope to other companies that support inclusiveness and their pupil’s.
Somers further implies that a rehearsal period my hinder one’ self-esteem. “It would appear that working intensively may in fact not be helpful for individuals with disabilities, primarily because of the fatigue factor.” [6] This suggests that through the demanding nature of rehearsals that some may feel discouraged, as they are physically unable to compile to rehearsal demands. Fortunately Chickenshed dedicates a lot of their time and energy into educating their students, staff and members on how to support and use their inclusive methods, in a safe environment. “Where everyone is welcome and valued.”[7]
If the people of today applied this way of thinking with “No Commprise” [8], this will enhance the development and communication within each community. “To make it a better place, for you and for me and the entire human race.’ [9]
Sources:
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[2]
[3] The Disability Discrimination Act (2005) < www.dwp.gov.uk> [accessed 2 Januray, 2010]
[4] Somers, John, 1996, Drama and Theatre in Education: Contemporary Research (York: Captus press) p224
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[6] Somers, John, 1996, Drama and Theatre in Education: Contemporary Research (York: Captus press) p226
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[9] Jackson, M, ‘Heal the World’ (1991)
My website addresses have not shown up on blogger, but are in place. x
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