Shamaan Freeman Powell

A theatre group created by people with disabilities and mental health conditions present ‘Lives Like These’, telling real life stories to create a dialogue between the community and Government.

The play, which takes place at St Mary’s University, Twickenham, on Saturday, November 11, explores the issues which surround people who live, or care for people with disabilities.

Bryony Meetyard, 34, created the play in partnership with Ruils, a local charity that supports children and adults with disabilities, and the elderly to live independently.

Bryony, who has invited various local MP;s and Councillors to watch the play, said:” I think its important to engage with the community and politicians because I want to give real people a voice and affect social change through theatre”

‘Lives like these’ plans to empower those that live with different conditions encouraging the audience to laugh and learn from other people’s experience.

Domenico Pasquariello, 48, who is a participant in the play and describes himself as having ‘more front than the Brighton Pier’, said: “Everyone shares their experience about how they have been treated

“We want to make people aware of the situations that surround us, it’s not anyone’s fault but people sometimes think that they are helping but are actually hindering.”

The play explores a wide range of issues from wheelchair access to bullying and social care, and Domenico says: “We are putting it all together to make people understand that we are human beings just like everyone else.”

Sarah Spoor, 55, who cares for her 2 adult children shares her experiences in the production.

She says she feels as though she has to counteract programmes about people abusing benefits, however, by participating in the play she says she feels less isolated.

 “It’s a diversion from my own life with the hope to improve it and other peoples”, says Sarah.

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The play starts are 7pm and tickets are priced at £7.