Inclusive Cinderella pantomime breaks barriers on stage in Chadderton

Sunday, 9 November 2025 20:26

By David Murphy

A North West care provider is putting on a reimagined Cinderella pantomime featuring a cast made up entirely of people with complex needs

Future Directions CIC is staging a version of Cinderella performed entirely by the people it supports across the North of England. The cast includes individuals with learning disabilities, autism, mental health conditions and complex care needs. Seven of the cast members are wheelchair users, including the actor playing Cinderella.

The pantomime will take place on 12 December at a local church in Chadderton. Support workers will also appear on stage, helping some of the cast deliver their roles as part of the fully inclusive show.

The story was co-written and adapted by the FD Panto Crew, alongside Kevin Phoenix, the organisation’s Music and Creative Activities Lead. Phoenix has more than 25 years of experience supporting people with learning disabilities and autistic people.

He said the aim of the show is to challenge how disability is seen in theatre and to show that talent is not limited by ability.

Narrator Stuart said the story of Cinderella fits well with the message behind the show. He said it is about kindness, fairness and overcoming adversity. He added that the performers have grown in confidence with each rehearsal.

Future Directions CIC is a not-for-profit organisation working across the North of England. It supports more than 300 people and reinvests all its income into improving services. Through projects like the Do Something New campaign and groups such as The SPICE Group and Friends for Life, the organisation promotes inclusion and opportunity.