‘There is a reverberating feeling of hope and generosity when leaving the hall: hope for an investigative society that strives for an holistic approach to work; hope to reach a point where labels are unnecessary and self-advocacy is the norm. The performers are asking us to ask others, “What can I do to make you feel more comfortable today? And here is what you can do to help me.”’
‘A sonic exploration of neurodivergent identities’
A collaboration between King’s College London and City of London Sinfonia, Divergent Sounds explores ways in which neurodivergent people’s brains may work differently, and the strengths and challenges that come with being neurodivergent in a neurotypical world.
Using text from interviews and focus groups of neurodiverse people to find themes and insights, the piece aims to communicate neurodivergence to those without lived experience. Setting this text to music gives an emotive and immersive understanding, encouraging people to reflect on how we can make the world more inclusive.
Researcher: Dr Virginia Carter Leno
Composer: Amble Skuse
Dramaturg: Jen McGregor
Soprano: Stephanie Lamprea (pictured)
A visual timeline
Jon Adams, an autistic artist who sat on the project steering committee, created this visual timeline of the composition that was available to audiences before the performance so they knew what to expect throughout the piece. Click on the image below to view the full timeline.
