By Lesley Reed
Sparkling Synergy that transforms lives
At No Strings Attached Theatre of Disability we frequently hear from our talented and committed disabled performers and their support teams that we are unique in the arts and disability space because No Strings provides opportunities that mainstream performing institutions don’t. We truly understand our people and their dreams. In return, they give us the same unity and commitment in their stunning work. It’s a ‘oneness’, a sparkling synergy that challenges perceptions and transforms lives.
This synergy flows into and from all aspects of the creative work we do together. We provide the framework for training and skills development as well as encouragement, support and opportunities, so that our artists feel comfortable and empowered to hone their craft and be ready for (mainstream) opportunities.
Disability “unmasked”
Many people dealing with disability will work hard to mask their true selves so as to ‘pass’ in a mainstream world, however other institutions only cater for mainstream, where students are expected to bring certain capacities to their involvement with those institutions – reading, understanding instructions, following complex logic, strong physicality, exploring and expressing complex emotions, and more. We have heard from many of our actors that mainstream will only support them so far, but if the ‘mask’ slips, those institutions don’t know what to do. They are not set up to tailor skills training to the wide spectrum of the specific strengths and support needs of disabled people.
Authenticity
In contrast, we provide professional training for adults with often multi-layered and complex support needs who want to perform on stage. No Strings welcomes people into authenticity, to identify and hone their strengths, to work in community and collaborate together in creating theatre works that are not being made anywhere else. None of those things would happen if our performers were not learning the craft of acting, and the ideal place for them to do that is at No Strings.
This shows in the feedback we receive from participants, their families and others in their personal circles.
Participant Kathryn Hall said, “I love the way my brain works. No Strings has absolutely been a great support for my professional career.”
Ryan Rowland agrees. “I feel like I’m right at home, like I get to express my inner feelings. I struggle with my acceptance of having a disability.”
Sidney Debba understands what No Strings is all about. That synergy is reflected in his powerful words: “It’s about understanding people, especially the way they talk and feel. Expressing yourself… I’ve come to know myself… I’ve become my achievements.”
Kobi Taylor’s comments embody what it’s like to lose capacity due to a sudden and disabling brain injury. She knows how No Strings has helped change her story. “I remember what it was like, being in a wheelchair permanently, and not being able to walk or talk or do anything by myself, and now I can, I’m back – whether you like it or not! I love performing in front of a crowd.”
Family Feedback
Family feedback is welcome and invariably powerful, as in these words:
From Lynda: “Since joining No Strings, Josh finds them fun and engaging and he feels accepted and part of the team. For the first time in many years, he talks of having friends. He has grown in confidence. He is proud of his achievements.”
From Kerrin: “No Strings is a place where ability is recognised NOT disability. The workshops programs assist in building self-esteem, self-understanding and a passion for self-improvement. We are delighted that, as a result of her involvement with No Strings, Hannah (who has been non-verbal) is now committed to her Speech Pathology sessions.
Onwards and Upwards
No Strings Attached Theatre of Disability can’t wait to see the sparks of creative synergy continue to power our people and productions in 2026.
No Strings – professional theatre that recognises ability through
Fearless, Limitless, Boundless theatre.