SPARK LIVE: A Multi-Sensory Theatrical Journey of Hope and Connection
TAPAC | 1st September 2023

| Glass Ceiling Arts Collective |

11:00 a.m. is an unusual time for me to head to the theatre, but as I take my seat in the TAPAC theatre for a daytime matinee of "SPARK LIVE," I can't help but appreciate the thought behind this scheduling. A matinee allows me to enjoy a show and still have time for the rest of the day's activities. However, this show isn't tailored for me; it's designed to break barriers and cater to audiences often overlooked in live theatre. "SPARK LIVE" by Glass Ceiling Arts Collective embarks on a multi-sensory journey that resonates deeply with me, but more importantly, for those who often miss out on these opportunities.

As I settle amongst caregivers and family members of individuals with Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities (PMLD), the anticipation in the air is palpable. The energy is contagious, reflecting the joy and excitement that being in a theatre brings to all, regardless of their abilities. "SPARK LIVE" embodies a commitment to inclusivity, a beacon of access for all who seek the transformative power of the arts. Glass Ceiling Arts Collective stands as one of the pioneering forces in Aotearoa, dedicating their craft to audiences with PMLD.

The narrative unveils a story of resilience and the unique bond between a human and her animals. In a world consumed by a pandemic, I meet Kate, a spirited girl with a heart condition, and her mother, portrayed by the eminent Jackie Clarke. Universal themes of connection and fortitude resonate, even amid adversity. However, it's not just the narrative that captivates—it's the ingenious use of multi-sensory elements and the performers' seamless interaction with the audience. A realm where touch, taste, and scent merge into the narrative, brought to life by live music and Sam Jones' original compositions.

The cast, composed of three, portray their distinct characters and join forces to create these multi-sensory experiences. Hamish Davies, who seamlessly transitions between many roles and sets up or prepares each multi-sensory moment, has a sense of ease and charisma that keeps the audience engaged. Jackie Clarke's portrayal is a masterful blend of strength and tenderness, painting a portrait of Kate's mother. Meanwhile, Lily Mae Ivatt-Oakley's performance as Kate captures the yearning and hope that thread through the storyline. While not centre stage alongside the other performers, Charlotte Owens-Pring contributes to the multi-sensory moments. She assists in conveying some of the narrative through sign language, ensuring that those audience members who need it can fully enjoy and engage with the performance. 

My admiration for how the cast managed a challenging situation during the performance. They remained composed and ensured everyone had their own space while encouraging open discussions and accommodating those who needed to step out. These individuals were welcomed back seamlessly upon their return without drawing undue attention away from others. It was a remarkable display of maintaining a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere without disrupting the overall enjoyment of the show. The performers deserve applause for their ability to maintain the delicate balance skillfully; it's no easy feat.

As an audience member and observer, my participation brought me immense joy, best described as "incredibly fascinating." The attention to detail was evident in every aspect of the production; thoughtful gestures, like the warm blankets extended to the audience, mirroring the experience of the character Kate. In her role as the “mother,” Jackie Clarke directly connected with the audience, inviting us to immerse ourselves fully in the narrative. Moments like the welcome song greeted each audience member individually and created an inviting atmosphere before the show's narrative unfolded.

The multi-sensory tapestry of the performance was woven with ingenuity. It featured unique elements such as grated ice to feel the cold and a creative rain simulation using water spray bottles. A web-like fabric encircling the audience later transformed into symbolic horse reins, establishing an intimate connection with the storyline. The inclusion of heartbeat monitors, which allowed the audience to feel the pulsations in tandem with Kate’s heartbeat physically, served as a reminder of life's fragility. It provided a tactile experience, allowing every audience member to feel the pulse of the narrative.

The use of projection elements was another highlight. The dynamic imagery of horses projected onto the walls of Kate's bedroom added depth to her dreams and enriched her words. Within the performance, there were delightful interludes of both serene stillness and playfulness, providing enjoyable and relatable points of connection for the audience.

While it might seem simple to incorporate such elements in an immersive show, the meticulous care extended to the audience and the show's accessibility truly set this performance apart. The Auckland season's sell-out is a testament to its impact and significance, underscoring that theatre should be accessible to everyone despite persistent obstacles. "SPARK LIVE" shows that inclusive theatre can transcend barriers, and the performance invites us to embrace the force of storytelling, where shared experiences remind us that fostering connections with others and the world around us is extraordinary, no matter who you are.