Recently, the RIX Centre was excited to host and partner in a powerful and dynamic drama workshop led by Christopher Fennell, an MA student, and Liselle, a talented facilitator. The session was built around the bold themes explored in the performance Not Fucking Sorry (NFS) — a show that unapologetically celebrates disability pride, challenges societal norms, and embraces identity without shame.
The workshop brought together a diverse group of participants, including purpleSTARS, who have lived experience of a diverse range of differences and disabilities. Together, we explored the emotional and political messages of the show through conversation, physical theatre, and reflection. The session was filled with moments of vulnerability, courage, humour, and connection.
Exploring bold themes through creative expression
Setting the tone of the workshop, participants viewed various parts of the recorded NFS performance. Inspired by the brief viewing, the group discussed their perception of the cast of characters. Throughout these conversations, people described the cast using powerful affirmations like rockstar, sassy, and brilliant.
As the session unfolded, a series of bold and engaging activities encouraged deeper thinking and creative expression.
- Gesture-based introductions allowed each person to express themselves in their own way
- Freeze-frame activities encouraged groups to physically interpret big ideas like “government,” sparking discussion about power and control
- The ramp walk highlight of the workshop, a moment of celebration where each participant had the opportunity to showcase their identity through movement
- Mindfulness and reflection exercises collectively encouraged the group to focus on what we love about ourselves and what we are learning to let go of
- A bold closing invited participants to shout out swear words — served as an equalizer through breaking down emotional and cultural barriers while reclaiming power through language
Purpose and intention
Christopher Fennell, the workshop’s creator, shared his vision:
The post-performance workshop was about helping people digest the information portrayed in Not Fucking Sorry. It was also about embodying those themes, learning through the body, through action. We wanted to see whether theatre could offer a way to physically express these ideas and really take them in.
The session encouraged critical thinking and emotional honesty, using drama as a tool for advocacy, reflection, and empowerment. Words that are often taboo, such as TWAT — were brought into the conversation not to provoke, but to reclaim power and challenge stigma.
Emotional journey and shared experience
The emotional journey of the workshop was striking. People arrived feeling uncertain, nervous, or unsure of what to expect. Through interacting with the activities and stepping out of comfort zones, a collective shift took place. Laughter, deep discussion, and shared silences created a space where people felt safe to open up.
There was a sense of unity in difference. In one activity, participants placed one hand on their chest and the other on their stomach, breathing in and out together. This simple act of mindfulness encouraged an atmosphere that contrasted with the high energy and spontaneity of other parts of the workshop. Instead, the atmosphere was calm, focused, and reflective. This activity served as a powerful reminder that although we are different, we share common hopes, struggles, and dreams. It created a moment of stillness and connection, grounding us in our shared humanity.
Reflections from participants
Several participants offered reflections, expressing what they thought about the workshop. Here are some that stayed with us:
The workshop of NFS is one, very defying. Two, very popular. Three, it is dancing through life in a way that’s never been expected. – Rufaro
It’s about determination, showing the world what you’re really made of, and being unapologetic about being outstanding. – Lee
Making what needs to be visible, visible — that’s really important. This gives people skills and confidence to self-advocate, which is so needed. – Anon
I really enjoyed seeing people with disabilities being so expressive about their lives. It was uplifting. The workshop was a great way to explore those themes together. – Anon
Expression, confidence, and wellbeing. – Allana
This workshop reminded us that inclusion is not a checklist. Instead, it is a lived experience that deserves to be heard and represented in all areas of life. This workshop demonstrated that this can be accomplished by creating environments where people feel free to express themselves, challenge assumptions, and support one another’s growth. Additionally, this workshop demonstrated the importance of art and theater as an important form of expression and growth.
Art and theatre can be powerful tools for breaking down stigma. Inclusivity thrives when people are encouraged to take up space and speak their truth. Unconscious bias exists in all of us and workshops like this help bring those biases to the surface, where they can be addressed. We are not sorry for who we are — and no one else should be either.
As we reflect on this inspiring experience, we are excited to build on what we have learned and share it with others. Workshops like this one show that with creativity, courage, and care, we can create spaces that truly value every voice. Through performance, discussion, and shared exploration, we move closer to a world where difference is celebrated, not merely accepted.
We’re grateful to Chris, Liselle, and every participant who made this workshop such a meaningful and unforgettable experience.
Maggie Price, CAPA Intern
Sandhra Suresh, MA Social Work student