TwoCan Inclusive Theatre
TwoCan Inclusive Theatre Company, a charitable organisation, having secured a venue to call its own, has embarked on a transformation aimed at redefining both the physical space and the impact it can have on its users. TwoCan recently acquired a Victorian church building to serve as their dedicated theatre and workshop space, marking the beginning of ambitious future plans.
We were appointed as the architects last year, and with a planning application recently submitted , the project is now in full swing. The year-long redevelopment project extends beyond the confines of a performance stage, delving into educational and community programs to dismantle preconceived notions about disability. Through meticulous research and community engagement, the project sets out to dismantle participation barriers, expanding its reach into new areas while fostering an environment where families are encouraged to partake in the experience.
The brief embodied a commitment to flexibility over formality, embracing theatre in all its formats and genres while challenging perceptions of disability.
Sustainability stands as a cornerstone, the redevelopment includes plans for a sensory garden, training opportunities in the kitchen, and a commitment to overcoming spatial challenges for optimal utilisation.
The small kitchen and café area, a nucleus of community engagement, will undergo a transformation into an inclusive culinary hub. Partnering with organisations like Wiggly (Food Charity), TwoCan aims to host a variety of food events, fostering independence skills and providing kitchen support for asylum seekers.
The redesign introduces adjustable workstations and sensory-friendly finishes to accommodate diverse needs, allowing for the integration of wheelchairs and fostering an inclusive dining space.
The divided hall space, currently a canvas awaiting transformation, will become a versatile performance hub. Equipped with thermal and acoustic insulation, stage lighting infrastructure, and accessibility features, it aims to challenge and excite participants and audiences alike. The design envisions a dynamic space with interactive lighting and sound beam facilities, aligning with TwoCan’s commitment to innovation and inclusivity.
The current setup with two small toilets and a storage room undergoes a reconfiguration to create fully accessible toilets and a changing area with hoist facilities. This section prioritises accessibility, ensuring that the architectural design reflects the ethos of TwoCan in providing a welcoming and supportive environment for all individuals.
As this project takes flight, it embodies the belief that architecture can be a catalyst for societal change, creating spaces that transcend physical boundaries and embrace the richness of human diversity.
Client: TwoCan Inclusive Theatre Company
Project Type: Remodel/refurbish/newbuild
Location: Gloucestershire
Status: Planning
Images: TwoCan
