PLAYWRIGHT
Roomies is a story close to my heart. I love (and I hope you do too) the journey of the evolving friendship between bad-boy Nick and sheltered, studious David who lives with a disability.
I believe the story does what I intend it to do. In the current Canadian theatre landscape, we see shows focused on putting disability issues front and centre— it’s what has been termed “disability theatre”. While I think works such as these are important—there’s also a growing sense of segregation. We have to look beyond the issue when it comes to how creators and audiences see disabled actors (and characters). A physically disabled character can be in a play as part of the story, but the disability does not have to be THE story. It’s what I like to call integrated theatre. ROOMIES is not a disabled play—it is a play.
- Paul David Power
About the Playwright
Paul David Power has spent the past 20 years working as a writer, actor, director and communications professional in various mediums and for diverse organizations - including dramatic script for the stage. His formal training includes holding a BA in English with a concentration in theatre and a BAA in Journalism. Paul has a long history in raising awareness and understanding about disability issues through his work as a playwright, columnist and feature writer. His work includes several years working with the Shakespeare by the Sea Festival in Newfoundland and Labrador where he currently holds the position of Associate Artistic Director. He was President of the Liffey Players Drama Society in Calgary for three years. In 2010 Paul moved to Moncton NB and has been the Artistic Director for Hubcity Theatre since 2013. Paul has been highlighted in the media many times for his work as an artist living with a disability - often inspiring and leading the way for younger artists who face their own challenges and disabilities when it comes to succeeding in the arts. |
WATCH THIS CBC PROFILE ON PAUL'S WORK
AND ORIGINAL DEBUT OF ROOMIES |