New play demonstrates employment challenges for people with learning disabilities and autism

Written and performed by artists with learning disabilities and autistic artists, Employment Roulette is the latest play by The Twisting Ducks Theatre Company to be presented at Live Theatre, Newcastle Quayside on Saturday 4 May 2024. In this play the audience follows the journey of three job candidates with learning disabilities and autism as they navigate searching for a job. However, what begins as a typical job interview takes a dystopian turn, transforming the interview process into a game-show-style contest. Audiences will see candidates compete in weird and wonderful rounds, with the ultimate prize being a job offer. Humorous, entertaining and thought-provoking, the play explores the unnecessary employment barriers faced by people with learning disabilities and autistic people, sparking broader discussions about how society can create a more equitable environment for all job seekers.

The performers, who meet weekly at Newcastle’s Theatre Royal, are part of The Twisting Ducks Theatre Company, a charitable incorporated organisation that works with people with learning disabilities and autistic people to tackle inequalities and effect social change through performing arts. Working across Tyne & Wear and Northumberland, The Twisting Ducks Theatre Company supports over 500 people a year to share their stories, develop their artistic skills and to ensure the uniqueness and relevance of their art reaches more people.

Cat Catizone, Drama facilitator at The Twisting Ducks Theatre Company, said: “Employment Roulette is unique and thought-provoking. It’s very funny but also poignant, and audiences will gain insight into the unnecessary barriers to employment encountered by people with learning disabilities and autistic people. We hope the show will spark conversations about inclusivity, accessibility, and the need for changes in how employers assess candidates.”

Marc, performer in Employment Roulette, said: “Our play Employment Roulette is about people with learning disabilities finding it hard to get a job, because of all the barriers out there. Some employers might not want to take people on, a lot of people need support and don't always know where to get it. I do paid work delivering training for the Twisting Ducks and it makes me feel confident. I think more people should have the opportunity to work" 

Employment Roulette is on at Live Theatre on Saturday 4 May 2024 at 4pm and 7.30pm with tickets priced at £10.