TwoCan Connect - Gloucestershire’s Network for Disabled Artists Returns

Join TwoCan Theatre as we continue to build the network BY and FOR DDN (Disabled, Deaf and Neurodivergent) creatives across Gloucestershire. • Build connections with peers who just ‘get it’ • Discuss accessibility best practice • Work together to build what we need We’re really excited to take the next steps in building a network completely BY and FOR DDN (Disabled, Deaf and Neurodivergent) creatives in Gloucestershire. Our first TwoCan Connect event on 28th July was a huge success - with over 20 creatives from across the county gathering to connect, be heard and dream of a more accessible future together. We’re now busy planning the next lunchtime event for 4th November, once again hosted at the brilliant PATCH in Gloucester as a central, accessible location. Image description: A room filled with people deep in discussions. Natural light is filtering in through thin yellow curtains in the background, giving the room a bright and sunny feel. There are separate groups gathered around two tables covered in post-its, paper and coffee mugs. At the table in the foreground a BSL interpreter is translating for the person speaking. WHAT TO EXPECT: Each event will have a slightly different structure, and based on feedback from the last event we are offering opportunities to hear directly from other artists and network in a more unstructured way than the hosted table discussions of our inaugaural event. Arrive from 12:15pm, help yourself to free tea and coffee and settle in. At 12:30pm the event starts with a quick introduction from Nickie Miles-Wildin, before everyone briefly introduces themselves to the group. Next we'll hear from 4 brilliant local DDN creatives about their own work and experiences in short 5-minute presentations. If you'd be interested in presenting please email us about our open call at [email protected] Finally, there will be time to mingle, connect and chat with anyone you'd like to hear more from. After the official event wraps up there is an option to stay on for informal chats in the Lounge, with more free tea and coffee available! (until 2pm) Image description: Nickie Miles-Wildin, a white woman with short light hair, stands at a microphone. She is wearing chunky cats-eye glasses, a pale pink button-up shirt and blue jeans. She is smiling as she welcomes attendees into the space. ACCESS: As a disabled-led event we have aimed to design this event with access as a priority, but we recognise everyone’s needs will be different. Please let us know when booking what your access requirements are, or if preferred send your access rider to [email protected] The following will be offered at the event as standard. • BSL Interpretation • Fully wheelchair-accessible venue & toilet • Quiet space • Assistance dogs welcome • Access Workers on hand to assist with refreshments and note taking. (Please note that the access workers will NOT assist with personal care) Venue walkthrough video coming to our instagram soon, or more details on the PATCH website at www.patch.work/locations/gloucester Image description: A group of people sit around a table, deep in conversation. There are lots of thoughtful expressions as people react to who's speaking. The table is covered in sheets of paper and mugs of coffee.