Graeae Theatre Company is set to host its highly anticipated New Writing Festival at Rich Mix in East London on January 25th and 26th, 2025. As the UK’s national theatre for Deaf, Disabled, and neurodivergent artists, Graeae continues its mission to champion diverse narratives and inclusivity within the arts.
The two-day festival will feature a rich program, including rehearsed readings of full-length plays by Olivier Award-nominee Shahid Iqbal Khan and Lettie Precious, co-directed by acclaimed theatre talents Milli Bhatia and Kate Lovell. Audiences will also experience three specially commissioned short plays from emerging playwrights Jesse Stone, Madeleine Farnhill, and Jordon Grant. Directed by Graeae’s Artistic Director Jenny Sealey OBE and Nickie Miles-Wildin, these works promise bold storytelling, from gothic folktales to poignant explorations of identity and societal challenges.
Star performers such as Jamael Westman (Hamilton), Alexandra James (Sex Education), and Arian Nik (Count Abdulla) headline a diverse cast, alongside panel discussions featuring leading industry voices like Stephanie Bain (Almeida Theatre) and Rachael Young (multidisciplinary artist). These discussions aim to foster dialogue around accessibility and representation in new writing.
Jenny Sealey OBE celebrates the festival as a testament to Graeae’s 40-year commitment to supporting emerging talent. “This festival is a celebration of the skill of our Deaf, Disabled, and neurodivergent writers and the vital role they play in shaping the future of theatre,” she said.
With audio description and captioning integrated into all performances, Graeae ensures the festival is accessible to all. Tickets and further information can be found on the Graeae website. Join this unmissable celebration of innovation, inclusivity, and creative excellence in the heart of London.
Visit www.graeae.org for more details and ticket information.