“Come and direct Pericles for my theatre company” says Ben Rannan to me in 2023. “Sure” I say. “All the actors will have disabilities, from wheelchair users to stroke survivors to epilepsy”. “OK” I hear myself say and thus begins another chapter of theatre making that only Pericles can hold in its landscape. Bens’ notion was to allow his company of disabled actors – the longest running company of disabled actors in the US – to be empowered through helping profoundly autistic people to take centre stage. This process would take the spotlight off the actors and give them the opportunity to empower others. The experience was a gift to me and the production is living and breathing in Denver Colorado. Long may it continue.
"Kelly’s method is a truly universal art form. The Hunter Heartbeat resonates with disabled individuals from all backgrounds—across races, faiths, and beliefs. In a time of so much constant dread and separation between humans, this work unites us. Whether I was working solo in Chicago, with just a few actors in Cincinnati, or producing a fully rehearsed production in Denver, one thing remained constant: its ability to connect deeply with those who need it most in our community. When I first began practicing Hunter Heartbeat over a decade ago, I understood its significance for disabled participants. What I didn’t realize was how profoundly it would impact my own heartbeat in this world that needs our heart more than ever”.
- Ben Raanan Artistic Director Phamaly Theatre
