Somatic Shrines for Crip Times: Act I

The performance consists of offerings to imaginary avatars associated with emotions such as joy, grief and anger in the context of experiences of disability.

These avatars are digitally projected and appear throughout the piece as embodiments of experiences of disability and the wisdom gained from them.

Each performer presents their avatar with a specific offering through personal gestures and choreography drawn from their own experience, thereby translating emotions into colour, visual animation and form.

The audience takes their seats in various accessible seating areas, whilst the avatars move amongst the performers, thereby creating a speculative space in which wisdom about disability can be conveyed across time and between people.

The process is designed to facilitate participation by people with disabilities whilst capturing subtle emotions and sensory experiences drawn from their own life experiences.

Some aspects of the production are created in a domestic setting and virtually, taking into account the fact that not all people with disabilities are able to travel or leave their homes. Elements of the piece are developed through accessibility-focused practices, including choreography based on experiences of disability, the wearing of masks and COVID testing.

The performance is a means of conveying realities that remain socially invisible, yet are deeply felt, vividly present and lie just beneath the surface.