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We are fundraising to support an ambitious new play with learning disability at its heart championing inclusion and diversity in the arts.
Up Down BIG Man
Myrtle Theatre Company co-produced with Wiltshire Creative in association with The Wardrobe Ensemble
Help us to fund this groundbreaking new production
We have spent twenty years making theatre with Nathan Bessell, an exceptional actor and creator with learning disabilities. Together we have built something unique — two groundbreaking productions that have toured nationally, played the National Theatre, and challenged perceptions of what learning disabled artists can achieve. The death of Nathan’s mother Sue in 2024 inspired us to create the final chapter of their story.
Up Down BIG Man is that chapter. Myrtle Theatre Company is relaunching to make it happen, co-producing with Wiltshire Creative and collaborating with The Wardrobe Ensemble who will co-devise and perform alongside Nathan.
We have funding and in kind support in place already, but we need to raise a further £11,000 to fully fund the development of the production, and our work with MENCAP and other community organisations.
Please give what you can. Every donation supports Myrtle Theatre Company to make groundbreaking theatre that puts learning disabled artists where they belong — at the very heart of the creative process.
Thank you.
Heather Williams, Artistic Director, Myrtle Theatre Company
Up Down BIG Man performance dates 2026:
Salisbury Playhouse (Salberg Studio) 7–17 October 2026
Bristol Old Vic (Weston Studio) 20-24 October 2026
The production is supported by Arts Council England National Lottery project grant funding, our generous Patrons and in-kind support from Bristol Old Vic.
Video editor, Joe Childs, Music Kieran Buckeridge.
Funding method
Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made by 14th July 2026 at 2:12pm