This year one of the individuals that we support – Samantha – has written a series of incredible scripts about her experiences of living with a disability.

Samantha’s works offer an in-depth exploration of the complex emotions – both positive and negative – that she has experienced as someone who lives with disability every day.

Her two plays, A Disability with a Split Personality, and God in the Attic, provide interesting and insightful perspectives on how people with disabilities are treated in wider society.

Beyond her personal experiences, Samantha’s work highlights the challenges and barriers that are faced by millions of people with disabilities across the UK.

Scratch Night at Accidental Theatre

As part of Samantha’s creative process to develop her scripts, she has partnered with Accidental Theatre to gather first-hand feedback on her work from a live audience.

The team at Accidental Theatre host regular Scratch Nights to provide upcoming artists with a platform to share their works in progress. Bringing the scripts to life with a rotating cast of actors, the audience is invited to provide feedback to help writers further develop their scripts and adapt them for the stage.

Two of Samantha’s works have already been featured at different scratch nights – watch her latest work below:

What’s next for Sam?

Samantha is currently working on her next script – Speed Date – which is a play that explores complicated interpersonal relationships between a diverse cast of characters.

Exploring romantic relationships and friendships through Samantha’s unique lens, Speed Date is shaping up to be Samantha’s longest work yet, and as she continues to develop this exciting new script she will be taking part in further Scratch Nights – watch this space!

Samantha’s advice for upcoming writers

When asked about what it’s like to have her plays performed at Scratch Night, Samantha said:

“When a Disability with a Split Personality and God in the Attic got on stage, I felt like I had achieved something after all these years. They were mine, my creation. I felt different, like I was proud of who I am because I am able to do this thing.”

Samantha also offered some valuable advice to others who are looking to explore their creativity and pursue their dreams:

“My best advice for someone with or without disability who has a dream – never give up on it, keep turning to the next part of its destination.

Shouting out to all of those wannabe writers who might have writer’s block – don’t give up. That chapter, scene, and episode will eventually come to an end, ready to start a new one. A new series of that franchise.

Tell yourself as you struggle with that pen you have to hold or those keys beneath your fingertips – you got this.

All you have to do is believe in what you write, and when you find your ending like I did, the ending can take you anywhere.”