Take Up Space is a national call-to-action to protect disabled artists’ right to work, powered by a new short film by Extraordinary Bodies.
Our film celebrates 12 years of unique artists and physical exploration. It invites venues, communities, artists and audiences to stand with disabled creatives whose right to work is being quietly dismantled.
Take Up Space is our call to be seen and heard – to make disabled voices and art louder, prouder, and beautifully unmissable. It’s a reminder that we’re not going anywhere, and that together we’re a force. Jonny Leitch
Each moment in the film is a protest. Each artist states clearly: I am here. I create. I belong.
Take part in the campaign: screen it, share it, speak up
Your venue — or a venue you love — can screen or stream this film and take part in a growing national campaign. It’s free, flexible, and we want to share it widely.
Simply share info@diversecity.org.uk with any venue you think should be involved or send us the venue you are thinking of — send them our way and we’ll help them take action.
Why this matters
‘Access to Work’ is the scheme that enables many D/deaf, disabled and neurodivergent people, artists to do their jobs — funding support workers, BSL interpreters, drivers and essential access. Right now, long delays, reduced awards and increased rejections — is threatening decades of progress in disability inclusion across the arts. Find out more…
These venues have already joined our campaign:
Are you interested in creating inclusive shows? Click here to check out our free
Extraordinary Bodies is the collaboration between Diverse City and Cirque Bijou. We thank our funders for their support: Arts Council England, National Lottery and Paul Hamlyn Foundation. And a special thank you to our script advisory group; Michael Achtman, Elana Binysh, Stav Meisher, Nina Steiger and Sarah Sigal.
