Graeae's New Writing Festival at Rich Mix in Bethnal Green! The event aimed to foster inclusivity and dialogue around new writing, particularly highlighting the invaluable contributions of Deaf, Disabled, and neurodivergent playwrights.

Festival highlights included rehearsed readings of full-length plays by talented playwrights Shahid Iqbal Khan and Lettie Precious. Attendees also enjoyed specially commissioned short plays from emerging voices Jesse Stone, Madeleine Farnhill, and Jordon Grant, showcasing the incredible diversity of storytelling within the Disabled writing community.

In addition to the readings, the festival featured thought-provoking panel discussions with influential voices from the industry including, Stephanie Bain (Head of Programming and Literary at Almeida Theatre), Rachael Young (multidisciplinary artist) and Nicola Werenowska (playwright). As well as accessible networking opportunities for all attendees. The festival served as a vital platform for exchanging ideas, stories, and experiences, enriching our understanding of diverse narratives in the arts.

We believe in the creative case for diversity, and was excited to showcase the talent and creativity that come from diverse backgrounds, celebrating the power of new writing and its unique role in enriching an artistic community that thrives on diversity.

We had an amazing cast join us in performing in our shorts plays and rehearsed readings:
Shaheen Khan, Mark Lockyer, Siobhan Athwal, Shazia Nicholls, Arian Nik, Halema Hussain, Seda Yildiz, Usaamah Hussain, E.M Williams, Alexandra James, Jamael Westman, Chris Fonseca, Raymond Shaahu, Clare Almond and Danielle James.

Access information:

  • Introductions and panel discussions were all BSL-interpreted and captioned with audio description woven in.
  • Plays and rehearsed readings were captioned with audio description woven in. Click here for full play information.
  • Access Workers and BSL-interpreters were available for networking, lunch and breaks.