Stopgap Dance Company Lived Fiction
United Kingdom
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Feel dance differently in this boundless multisensory performance
The manifestation of Stopgap’s thirty-year history is shared in the ‘quietly revolutionary’ work of Lived Fiction. A timely intervention that is shaping the future of contemporary dance.
It’s the fictions we draw from to lose ourselves in, the stories and histories we share, hide and split between.
The sensual choreography is given new meaning with evocative audio description, exquisite projection art and creative captioning. Expect masterful performances from Disabled, neurodivergent and non-disabled creatives in a show where access and care have been built into the bones of a truly original production.
We invite you to experience dance from multiple perspectives and share in a future that is rich with the enterprise, potential, and power of diversity.
Please note: Headset bookings are not applicable for this production for audio description as it is integrated.
Header image description: A performer in a wheelchair does a one-handed headstand. Their other hand reaches out to the camera. They are wearing a white satin corset, and they are backlit by a bright orange light.
Header image © Chris Parkes
Audio Described Performances
There are a limited number of Stalls seats reserved for partially sighted patrons, and headsets available for those wishing to listen to the audio description, please email tickets@sadlerswells.com if you wish to book these optionsCaptioned Performances
For advice on where to sit in order to view the captions please contact our Ticket Office at tickets@sadlerswells.com or by calling 020 7863 8000.Relaxed Performances
A Relaxed Performance is a less formal theatre experience for anyone who would benefit from a more relaxed atmosphere to enjoy a show. They support noise and movement within the auditorium during a show, re-entry when needed so house lights are left on throughout, and a separate chill-out space for anyone who might need it at any time during their visit. We also provide a Visual Story so people can familiarise themselves with the theatre and key details about the show in advance.Touch Tour
Visually impaired patrons can go on a Touch Tour before the performance. Your tour guide will take you backstage, or onto the stage itself, to feel costumes and pieces of the set and learn more about the production.Part of The Rose Prize 2027.
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About the contender
Founded in 1998 by British dancer Vicki Ballaam, Stopgap was built on a clear vision: to foster an inclusive world where diversity is actively championed rather than simply accepted.
In 2012, under the artistic direction of Lucy Bennett, the company redefined its creative identity. This marked a shift away from working with external choreographers, as Stopgap began developing and touring its own original productions globally.
Now led by Co-Artistic Directors Lucy Bennett and Laura Jones, Stopgap has evolved into a dedicated ensemble of diverse creatives, committed to nurturing Disabled leaders, performers, and choreographers.
Lived Fiction was conceived and choreographed by Lucy Bennett in collaboration with Stopgap’s Deaf, Disabled, neurodivergent, and non-disabled artists. Senior Dance Artists Christian Brinklow, Nadenh Poan, Hannah Sampson, and Jannick Moth are joined by Emily Lue-Fong, Monique Dior Jarrett, and Lily Norton, with Amy Butler returning as Rehearsal Director.
The description not only itemises the movement but also elevates small things you might not see.
★★★★ THE GUARDIAN
There are certain works that permanently alter one’s perception of the world; Lived Fiction is one such creation
★★★★★ A YOUNG(ISH) PERSPECTIVE
I feel I have experienced something with everyone here. For the first time, I’ve been given my window into dance.
THE GUARDIAN
a leading force for change within the arts, both nationally and internationally.
DISABILITY ARTS ONLINE
Performances
Audio Described Performances
There are a limited number of Stalls seats reserved for partially sighted patrons, and headsets available for those wishing to listen to the audio description, please email tickets@sadlerswells.com if you wish to book these optionsCaptioned Performances
For advice on where to sit in order to view the captions please contact our Ticket Office at tickets@sadlerswells.com or by calling 020 7863 8000.Relaxed Performances
A Relaxed Performance is a less formal theatre experience for anyone who would benefit from a more relaxed atmosphere to enjoy a show. They support noise and movement within the auditorium during a show, re-entry when needed so house lights are left on throughout, and a separate chill-out space for anyone who might need it at any time during their visit. We also provide a Visual Story so people can familiarise themselves with the theatre and key details about the show in advance.Touch Tour
Visually impaired patrons can go on a Touch Tour before the performance. Your tour guide will take you backstage, or onto the stage itself, to feel costumes and pieces of the set and learn more about the production.Audio Described Performances
There are a limited number of Stalls seats reserved for partially sighted patrons, and headsets available for those wishing to listen to the audio description, please email tickets@sadlerswells.com if you wish to book these optionsCaptioned Performances
For advice on where to sit in order to view the captions please contact our Ticket Office at tickets@sadlerswells.com or by calling 020 7863 8000.Relaxed Performances
A Relaxed Performance is a less formal theatre experience for anyone who would benefit from a more relaxed atmosphere to enjoy a show. They support noise and movement within the auditorium during a show, re-entry when needed so house lights are left on throughout, and a separate chill-out space for anyone who might need it at any time during their visit. We also provide a Visual Story so people can familiarise themselves with the theatre and key details about the show in advance.Touch Tour
Visually impaired patrons can go on a Touch Tour before the performance. Your tour guide will take you backstage, or onto the stage itself, to feel costumes and pieces of the set and learn more about the production.
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