A heart- warming exploration of how disability, sexuality and lust co-exist for people who require round-the-clock assistance.
Written by Jon Bradfield (Queers, BBC4; the Above The Stag Theatre adult pantomimes) and developed by disability activist and equality trainer Josh Hepple, ANIMAL is an authentic, hilarious, and heart breaking look at hook-up culture, navigating relationships and how they intersect with practical needs and social barriers for disabled people.
Christopher John-Slater plays David – gay, disabled and profoundly horny. David can’t eat, drink or shower by himself without an assistant, let alone the rest… Totally inexperienced and refusing to let his impairment stop him, David embarks on a sexual and romantic odyssey, armed with wit, charm and impressive nudes – although somebody else had to take them.
ANIMAL looks at how one man tries to keep it casual whilst relying on completely non-casual care. Can David juggle the uncertainty of romance, the crudeness of sexting and navigating Grindr, all whilst relying on assistance? Or in the end, maybe prejudice is the biggest disability of all?
Accessibility is at the heart of ANIMAL – everyone is welcome at any performance.The performance will be an environment where people can freely express themselves and experience the show according to their needs.
Cast: David - Christopher John-Slater, Liam - Joshua Liburd, Jill - Amy Loughton, Derek/Nuno - Matt Ayleigh, Mani/Michael - Harry Singh, Rob/Ray/Alan/Dad - William Oxborrow.
ANIMAL
9 th March – 2 nd April 2023 - Hope Mill Theatre Manchester
12th April – 15th April 2023 - Tobacco Factory Theatre Bristol
19th April – 20th May 2023 - Park Theatre Clifton Terrace London