Darrel Draper productions of Wet Cement Play – Creator and Writer

WET CEMENT

A new piece of theatre exploring neurodiversity; written, performed and presented by neurodivergent artists at Queens Theatre Hornchurch, thanks to the support of Arts Council England.

OVERVIEW OF THE PROJECT
Temporal Horizons Productions in association with Small Steed Theatre will present a work-in-progress performance of Wet Cement on the Other Stage at Queens Theatre Hornchurch on the 18th and 19th of November 2023 (1 8th Nov 7pm & 19th Nov 2.30pm).

WHAT IS WET CEMENT ABOUT?
‘Ali has left the madness of mainstream education to pursue a more peaceful career as a private tutor. However, when Danny (a neurodivergent man) enlists her help to pass his adult GCSE’s, she is dragged back into a world of stress and scrutiny, as it appears Danny is one of her ex-students who she had a hand in expelling.. Now Danny wants Ali to take accountability for her failings as a teacher. But Ali wants Danny to take accountability for his actions as a student…Can a compromise be reached before either hit breaking point, or will history tragically repeat itself?’This play is written by Darrel Draper, who has spent time on both sides of the desk within education and has witnessed the struggles of both student and teacher in navigating the system where additional educational needs is concerned. Darrel was diagnosed with having ADHD and dyslexia in his second year of university.
However, many aren’t diagnosed until much later in life, if at all. Currently there is a five year waiting list to be assessed on the NHS..

For many years, within education and society, the topic of ADHD and other forms of neurodiversity, have been widely debated… The ’causes’ and ‘cures’ are discussed at large and refuted (mostly by those who are ‘neurotypical’), and yet it would appear, there is very little theatre and other forms of art/entertainment, willing to delve into this subject matter. In this play, we look to put the text books and judgement to the side, and approach the subject with empathy, compassion, and understanding because we believe that is what is missing from many debates within contemporary society.

POSITIVE FEEDBACK SO FAR..
“Wet Cement is astute class commentary. Danny is exactly the kind of man dehumanised by society, and the writing does a tremendous job of humanising him with thought and tenderness… A beautiful story of redemption and friendship.”
– Bush Theatre
“The characters are richly painted and three-dimensional. The play offers a subtle and artful raising of dramatic stakes, the subtext is uneasy and carries danger to it.
This is a skilfully written two hander, which shows real promise.” – National Theatre