Sheffield Theatres Extends Engagement with Deaf and Disabled People with Appointment of Agent for Change

20th May 2016

Sheffield Theatres has increased its commitment to D/deaf and disabled people with the appointment of Ali Briggs as Agent For Change, a role designed to support the theatres in putting D/deaf and disabled artists and audiences at the heart of their work.

During her tenure, Ali will play an active role in the life of Sheffield Theatres. She will help increase the representation of D/deaf and disabled people within the organisation, accelerate positive change and stimulate awareness of disability issues in the arts.  She will advise on how best to integrate D/deaf and disabled people into the theatres' programme and address levels of attendance and engagement by D/deaf and disabled audiences and artists. Ali's appointment forms part of the theatres' commitment to the Ramps on the Moon project.  Funded initially by the Arts Council Strategic Touring Programme, Ramps on the Moon is a consortium of six regional theatres, including West Yorkshire Playhouse with whom Ali will also be working, committed to offering opportunities to D/deaf and disabled people and embedding accessibility and inclusivity into mainstream theatre.  The project will also change the way theatre made by and for D/deaf and disabled people is seen, by co-producing a touring show with each venue.  The first Ramps on the Moon production, The Government Inspector visits the Crucible from Friday 17 Saturday 25 June. Chief Executive of Sheffield Theatres, Dan Bates commented: 'We are delighted that Ali is working with us.  Improving access is a key part of our ethos and with her expertise, experience and support we aim to enhance and advance our programme to make Sheffield Theatres a truly inclusive organisation.'