Play reflects on evolving stigma surrounding disabilities

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VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – A dark comedy is debuting at the Cultch about living with a disability in the 70s.

The writer of the play based CREEPS of his own struggles.

Canadian David Freeman lived with cerebral palsy and wrote about how he was sick of the way he was treated while working in a sheltered workshop.

The four main characters spend their days toiling away until they are so sick of how they’re being treated the rebel and lock themselves in the bathroom.

Rena Cohen with Realwheels Theatre says the show is very much rooted in the 70s when a different set of rules applied.

“Some of the dialogue we can pretty much assure you will be offensive,” says Cohen, who adds the script is unforgiving and uncompromising. “Our cultural norms have evolved and what is simply acceptable today was very different in 1971.”

Cohen says this production is different from ones before is because it has integrated cast.

“Approximately 14 per cent of Canadians self-identify as living with a disability and yet we don’t see that demographic represented on our stages,” says Cohen.

“This play is an opportunity to reflect on the 45 years since the play was first produced — I kind of can’t believe it’s been that long. We’ve come a long way in regards to inclusion of disability and treatment of people with disabilities, but we still have a long way to go.”

The show runs until December 10th. You can find tickets here.

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