MARION SAUVEBOIS meets a theatre group with a mission to tackle prejudice and injustice

UNITED against injustice and by their love of the stage, the Partners truly deserve their name.

The theatre company, which stars performers with learning disabilities and mental health service users, was formed in 1983 by charity Reach Inclusive Arts.

Based at the Wyvern Theatre, the troupe has striven to produce original shows tackling difficult issues and uncomfortable taboos, including domestic violence and homelessness, all the while challenging audiences’ perception of disability.

“Reach Inclusive Arts began with the establishment of a theatre company of disabled actors,” said operations manager Yvonne Chamberlain.

“They develop original productions with their own music and film elements.

“Our aim is to create opportunities for people to experience art as a therapeutic medium and leave something of lasting value in the community.

“Partners tackle difficult issues which have affected their lives whilst maintaining high entertainment values. They have developed shows which have addressed family breakdown, domestic violence, alcoholism, homelessness and bereavement.”

Promoting acceptance and tolerance is the actors’ key aim and over the past 30 years, they have edged towards their goal one performance at a time. “Partners have all experienced the bullying and harassment of hate crime in their lives and feel it is important to proactive about raising awareness and promoting tolerance,” added Yvonne.

“The group have changed many times over their history and every year brings new members and new personal challenges and triumphs.”

Partners Theatre Company, which meets every Monday at the Wyvern, has taken its hard-hitting productions to schools over the past 10 years.

The actors are now working on a new project which will see them offer theatre workshops.

Yvonne said: “The workshops are an opportunity for the audience to experiment with theatrical equipment whilst also working with Partners in a positive learning exercise that increases community cohesion and raises disability awareness.

“Both tours in 2015 and 2016 will incorporate BSL interpretation for deaf and disabled adults in fully accessible venues.”

 To join, contact Reach Inclusive Arts on 01793 520318, visit reachinclusivearts.org.uk or get in touch via email at reachinclusive3 @btconnect.com