Disabled and non-disabled actors working in partnership for a theatrical performance: a research on theatrical partnerships as enablers of social and behavioural skills for persons with disabilities

This case study investigates the working conditions of a mixed theatre group and its impact on its disabled members. The qualitative research aims to explore the impact of drama work, rehearsals and performances on the disabled members’ social skills, and behavioural and emotional difficulties. Data collection methods included semi-structured interviews with 23 group members, audiovisual material from their performances and day-to-day group work spanning the last two years plus a four-month participant observation period including rehearsals, theatre stage work, everyday typical discussions and member interaction. Research findings show that such a creative partnership impacts significantly on the social and behavioural skills of the disabled members as a result of theatre-pedagogical practices and performances; it also brings out the creative and inclusive quality of drama.