About this Event
The Power of Different Open Dress Run
FREE INVITATION
Wednesday November 20th
The National Archives, Kew, Richmond, Surrey TW9 4DU.
3pm-4.15pm
About the Event
The Power of Different is a pioneering 2025 art initiative exploring the experiences of neurodivergent individuals and those living with long-term health conditions, through the mediums of dance and storytelling.
This ground-breaking project unites young people and adults with lived experience, acclaimed artists and leading scientists to create an inspiring professional performance and an accompanying youth films and performance. Through art, science, and lived experience, The Power of Different aims to foster empathy and challenge stereotypes.
Many thanks to key funders:
Arts Council England
Richmond Council
The Eastern City Business Improvement District
With special thanks to The National Archives for their generous venue partnership.
Venue Information
The National Archives is easily accessible by car, bus, underground, and overground trains.
For directions, visit: [where to find us]
• By Car: Visitor parking is available for a small fee. Free parking is provided for motorbikes and bicycles, with accessible bays for disabled visitors.
• Sat Nav: Use postcode TW9 4AD (Bessant Drive) for navigation and follow the signs to turn into the site before the retail park.
Programme Overview
Introduction
Vicky Iglikowski-Broad – The National Archives
Anne-Marie Smalldon – Artistic Director, Combination Dance
Curtain Raiser
In Our Own Words
A short film that gives young autistic people the space to share what life is really like for them — their challenges, their strengths, and their hopes for a world that listens, understands, and includes everyone. Created by young people from www.SEDSConnective.org , the neurodivergent hypermobility charity, Liberation Art Gallery in Brighton, as well as some incredible young people at local charity Express CIC special thanks to Eddie B, Thomas W, Connor M, Jaden J & Lauren Mc.
Act 1: The Power of Different
Join us for the Open Dress Run of our new theatre production written by acclaimed playwright Katie Arnstein, inspired by Dr. Gail Saltz’s bestselling book The Power of Different. The work is underpinned by research from UK psychiatrist Dr. Jessica Eccles.
Creative Team:
• Playwright: Katie Arnstein
• Original Book & Lead Scientific Advisor: Dr. Gail Saltz
• Executive Producer & Artistic Director: Anne-Marie Smalldon, Combination Dance
• Choreographer & Creative Stylist: Matt Walker, Ombrascura Dance
• Film Artist: Luke Toddfrey, TODDCS
• Producer: Hannah Gilbert
• Scientific Advisor: Dr. Jessica Eccl
Cast:
• Lead Actor / Narrator: Helen Reuben
• Professional Dancers: Leigh Shaked, Tilly Woodward, Jamie Mason,
Kerri De Aguiar, Luke Cartwright
The performance will be followed by an opportunity for the local audience to ask questions to members of the creative team and performers. Guests will be invited to share feedback to shape future iterations and help extend the project’s reach to broader audiences in 2026.
Join us in creating a movement for change - your insights and support are vital to helping us reframe public understanding through the arts. RSVP: Please confirm attendance for yourself and guests here or contact us at [email protected]
WhatsApp: 07966 230563
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
The National Archives, Bessant Drive Kew, Richmond, Surrey TW9 4AD, The National Archives,, Richmond, Surrey, United Kingdom
GBP 0.00
