Inclusive theatre with actors with and without intellectual disabilities: an artistic and collaborative challenge with socio-political ambitions

What does collaboration in Dutch inclusive theatres look like, and what key themes can be identified? Data were collected through interviews and co-creative sessions with seven independent theatre makers and members of three participating theatre groups (n=48). Thematic analysis resulted in the proposal of a model that identifies six interconnected core issues central to inclusive theatre practices: the Atomium Model in which dynamic tensions of attracting and repelling forces exist. The study
concludes that those involved in inclusive theatre are willing to continuously face artistic and collaborative challenges to fulfil their political ambitions and to dismantle prejudices and barriers.