Ulumbarra Foundation | Neurodivergent creativity takes centre stage!
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Uncertain Curtain

02 Oct Neurodivergent creativity takes centre stage!

Posted at 14:03h in Uncategorized by

Thanks to a Performing Arts Power-Up grant, Bendigo’s Uncertain Curtain Productions staged WYRD SISTERS at The Engine Room on 4–6 July, 2025—delivering a theatre experience designed by and for neurodivergent artists and audiences.

Founded in 2019, Uncertain Curtain exists so neurodivergent artists can “unmask” safely by building skills, confidence and community. The project WYRD SISTERS, adapted from Terry Pratchett’s beloved novel, riffs on Shakespeare to explore responsibility, identity and the power of words—themes that resonate strongly with neurodivergent communities.

The whole production journey—auditions, rehearsals and performance—was redesigned to reduce anxiety, support communication and expression, and remove barriers to full participation. Their volunteer team includes people with experience in speech pathology and mental health, all of whom are neurodivergent.

Thanks to the Ulumbarra Foundation’s generous supporters, the grant helped cover upfront costs such as hiring The Engine Room, a small black box space that limits sensory overwhelm.

“The show was a brilliant success!” said Founder/Producer Sarah-Jane Fawcett. “With the venue secured and production needs met, the team could focus on what counts: creative risk taking, peer mentoring and a theatre environment where everyone is respected and included.”

For example, the production prioritised:

  • backstage and onstage comfort and accessibility—especially costumes made with sensory friendly materials (i.e. avoiding polyester, certain nylons etc)
  • ‘sewing bees’, where experienced makers mentored cast and crew eager to learn new skills, and
  • controllable house lighting, and quiet areas for anyone needing a break from sound or light, created a welcoming environment.

“The Foundation was proud to support inclusive performing arts in Greater Bendigo,” said Ulumbarra Foundation Chair Carolyn Stanford. “Spaces like The Engine Room help ensure the arts is more accessible to neurodivergent performers and the audience.”

Note: “masking” is the term used when someone who is neurodivergent alters their behaviour to appear neurotypical to fit in with society.