A powerful new touring play is shining a spotlight on learning-disabled voices through a national theatre tour.
It’s a Wonderful Us, which features the work of learning-disabled artists and is written and directed by award-winning playwright Steve Gilroy.
The play was co-created with Lawnmowers performers Andrew McLeod and Andrew Robson and will visit venues across the UK from October 2026 to May 2027.
These include two performances at Friargate Theatre in York on Friday, October 23 and Saturday, October 24, and a show at the Stephen Joseph Theatre in Scarborough on Tuesday, November 24.
Writer and director, Steve Gilroy, said: "It’s a Wonderful Us has been built slowly and carefully over six years, through interviews, workshops and long conversations with the performers and their families.
"Life changed dramatically for all of us during that time – including periods of serious illness and isolation – but the commitment to telling this story never wavered.
"What emerged is an original piece that speaks honestly about the challenges our protagonist faces, the societal constraints around him, and the complexities of family relationships.
"At its heart, this is a play about what we inherit – and what we choose to leave behind."
The play centres on a variety duo attempting to revive their act, which leads to the unravelling of a hidden family story shaped by love, constraint, and the struggle to be heard.
As the act fractures and reforms, the story explores themes of identity, resilience, and the bonds between parents and children.
Wendy Patterson, general manager of The Lawnmowers, said: "As part of its 40th anniversary, Lawnmowers presents a bold, uplifting new production that shines a spotlight on the extraordinary creativity, passion, and professionalism of performers with learning disabilities.
"This work is a powerful reflection of four decades of commitment to inclusion and artistic excellence.
"It proudly celebrates the vital contribution artists with learning disabilities make to our cultural landscape, challenging outdated perceptions and demanding recognition of voices too often overlooked.
"Audiences can expect an inspiring, thought-provoking, and deeply moving experience – one that celebrates talent without limits and reaffirms the transformative power of inclusive art."
The touring production was made possible through funding from the National Lottery via Arts Council England.
The tour officially kicks off at Northern Stage, Newcastle, on the 17th October 2026.
The Lawnmowers Theatre Company, based in Pelaw, Gateshead, has been creating original work led by people with learning disabilities for 40 years.
Their mission is to challenge stereotypes and invite audiences to see the world differently through the lens of learning-disabled experience.
A spokesperson for the company said: "We believe theatre should be a space where everyone belongs.
"Our productions challenge stereotypes, celebrate learning-disabled voices, and invite audiences to see the world differently."
The Lawnmowers Theatre Company is an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation and works with theatres, schools, and communities across the UK to promote inclusion and creativity.
For more information on tour dates and tickets, visit www.lawnmowerstheatre.com/productions/its-a-wonderful-us.