All the World’s a Stage: Devising Access
As Shakespeare said, All the World’s a Stage and we are all players on that stage. In the metaphorical theater of life, we each take on roles, navigating through the stages set for us. As we interact with the world, we encounter various scripts – some are written and explicit, while others are unwritten and implicit. These scripts define societal norms, expectations, and structures that can either facilitate or hinder access for individuals from diverse backgrounds and abilities. Just as actors collaborate to devise a performance, society must come together to devise access.
Access as a Devising Process
Devising means to plan or invent (a complex procedure, system, or mechanism) by careful thought. Devised theatre – frequently called collective creation – is a method of theatre-making in which the script or performance score originates from collaborative, often improvisatory work by a performing ensemble. Access is not an isolated event but an ongoing, evolving process that requires collective effort. It involves breaking down barriers, creating inclusive spaces, and providing support to ensure that everyone can participate fully in the grand performance of life.
Process, Not Destination
Access should not be seen as a fixed destination but as a continuous journey. Like an ever-evolving play, we must adapt and refine our approaches to access as societal norms and needs change over time. Recognizing access as a process reminds us that there is always room for improvement and growth, and we should continually strive to create a more inclusive world.
Embracing Progress over Perfection
Perfection is an elusive and limiting goal, especially in the context of access. Instead of chasing an unattainable ideal, we should focus on progress. Every small step taken towards greater accessibility is a step in the right direction. Embracing the notion of progress allows us to celebrate the achievements made along the way, even if the journey towards inclusivity is never truly finished.
The Unwritten Scripts of Inclusivity
Unwritten scripts govern our interactions and expectations, often influencing access in subtle ways. It is essential to challenge these unspoken norms and assumptions to ensure inclusivity for all. By acknowledging and addressing the implicit biases that exist, we can work towards dismantling barriers that restrict access to marginalized individuals and communities.
Finale
Life is indeed a grand performance, and access plays a crucial role in shaping how each individual can participate and thrive on the world stage. As we navigate through the written and unwritten scripts, let us embrace access as an ongoing and ever-evolving devising process. Rejecting the notion of perfection, we must instead focus on progress and continual improvement in our quest for inclusivity. By doing so, we can ensure that the performance of life becomes a more equitable, empowering, and inclusive experience for everyone.