Provocative New Play Challenges Perceptions of Disability and Sexuality

Scottish writer and director Robert Softley Gale, artistic director of Birds of Paradise, is set to provoke discussions around the intersection of sex and disability with his new production, _(We indulge in) a bit of roll play_. The play aims to confront societal discomfort regarding the sexual lives of disabled individuals. Softley Gale emphasizes the importance of addressing uncomfortable questions, such as whether people would date or have sex with a disabled person, highlighting a persistent discomfort in recognizing that disabled individuals have sexual agency.

The Guardian

The narrative centers on Ben, a young disabled man portrayed by Ed Larkin, who navigates life at home with his parents while attending university and exploring romantic relationships. The play critiques the misconceptions held by Ben's parents about his capabilities, particularly regarding his sexual life. Softley Gale notes that the portrayal of disabled characters engaging in respectful and enjoyable sexual experiences is rare in theatre, and this production seeks to challenge that norm.

The Guardian

An intimacy coordinator, Vanessa Coffey, has been integral to the development of the play, ensuring that sensitive topics are handled appropriately. Her role includes preparing performers for the themes explored in the production and fostering a safe environment for both cast and audience. Coffey stresses the importance of consent and safety, allowing audiences to engage with the material while feeling secure.

The Guardian

Softley Gale explains that the production uses humor to address serious subjects, inviting audiences to grapple with difficult questions rather than providing straightforward answers. He believes that theatre excels at prompting discussions, even if it cannot offer solutions.

The Guardian

The play features explicit sexual content, including scenes depicting Ben's parents engaging in sexual acts and a sequence where Ben performs solo sex work. The script includes extensive sexual dialogue and references to various aspects of sexual culture, including kink and sex work. Softley Gale asserts that this graphic content serves to underscore the themes of sexual expression and visibility for disabled individuals, rather than being gratuitous.

The Guardian

He aims to challenge audiences to reconsider their preconceptions about how physically disabled people engage in sexual activities. By addressing these themes openly, the production seeks to foster conversations about societal taboos surrounding disability and sexuality.

The Guardian

Softley Gale hopes that the production will encourage audiences to reflect on their views and engage in discussions about the portrayal of disabled lives in media. Feedback from disabled audience members has indicated a desire for more representation of their stories, underscoring the significance of visibility in theatre.

The Guardian

Coffey notes that if the audience leaves the performance motivated to discuss what they have witnessed, it will signify a successful outcome. The production aims not only to challenge perceptions but also to affirm the complexity and richness of disabled lives, ultimately advocating for greater understanding and acceptance.

The Guardian

• “We’re not trying to ignore that question or say that’s a bad question,” — Robert Softley Gale, Writer and Director

The Guardian

• “If people leave this space wanting to have conversations about what they saw, that will be the big outcome.” — Vanessa Coffey, Intimacy Coordinator

The Guardian

• “A lot of the feedback we get from disabled audience members is, ‘I’ve never seen my story told before’ – and that’s a really powerful thing.” — Robert Softley Gale, Writer and Director

The Guardian