Documental Productions: Newsicals!
This project is to extend and add value to Documental’s previous Creative Arc-funded project, which empowered people with learning disabilities (PWLDs) and carers in Exeter through creative expression. This next iteration will:
Mount two Newsicals events in at Exeter Northcott Barnfield in central Exeter (in October ’25 and February ’26), to further foster the New Musical Theatre scene in Exeter, feature performance by Sing and Sign Jukebox Choir, and provide an accessible space where adults with learning disabilities and mid-career artists and musician share the stage platforming high quality original works.
Showcase new music created through a second phase of the PWLD and carer songwriting programme at Newsicals.
Carry out a consultation process, with the help of partners (Pelican Project, Exeter College Independence Pathway, In Focus) to design the process to hold a local LD ensemble (‘B cast’) as part of the musical Unreachable.
About Documental Theatre
Documental stories begin with interviews and archive finds. Their productions document British life in all its light and dark shades through playful, thought-provoking audio, theatre and musical productions. They want our shows to open up their arms and welcome the audience in. Increasingly the team are involved in community action: Makaton choirs, songs created with rural heroes, podcasts for community stations, and a grown-up musical with Makaton signing. Documental is led by writer Lucy Bell and producer Naomi Turner and associates include award-winning neuro-diverse, carer and disabled creatives from the South West.