Take Up Space
by Extraordinary Bodies and John Kelly
Circus, Music/Sound, Theatre
Take Up Space R&D is the first step to developing a mid/large-scale touring show for 2027 from Extraordinary Bodies & John Kelly.
Evolving from conversations around protest, we aim to blend activism & busking, live music, circus & street theatre. Set against the ongoing assault on disability rights, the project will explore how outdoor work can model allyship.
Collaborating with N’Abled, Metro Gad & Tramshed Woolwich, we will explore public participation through promenade performance. How can we invite people to join a movement & become allies? How can we build momentum between disparate groups, culminating in a powerful theatrical finale?
“Extraordinary Bodies is all about making sure that who you see on stage, off stage and in the audience reflects who we actually are in this country. We don’t all talk, look or think the same. We want to change who holds the stage in the arts and society.”
About Extraordinary Bodies and John Kelly
John Kelly is a passionate musician & artist with 30 years’ experience. Known for his protest songs & critically acclaimed for his live performance of Spasticus Autisticus at the opening ceremony of the London Paralympic Games. John has completed 5 UK tours & national & international performances with Graeae, EB & Access All Areas. Recently, he has performed at sold-out venues, appeared on BBC & Radio 6 & launched his debut album Better Late Than Never at the Southbank Centre.
Extraordinary Bodies is a vital collaboration between show-makers, Cirque Bijou, and Diverse City, a charity that champions diversity and equity in the performing arts. Collectively, we create a unique and magical space where diverse bodies are embraced, boundaries are broken, and inclusivity is championed. Bringing together the skill and talent of D/deaf, disabled, and non-disabled artists, our work is testament to how diverse, extraordinary people can work equally together on and off stage.
Extraordinary Bodies create powerful performances that celebrate our vast potential as humans. Exploring a vibrant mix of circus, dance, theatre, and music, we tell meaningful stories that question the value of our bodies and give a voice to those who are often silenced.