OneFest is coming to Mansfield in September

OneFest – which will take place from September 13-19 – is a collaboration between two local organisations: OneConversation and Ingenious Fools, with funding from Arts Council England. OneConversation use grassroots activism to dismantle the stigma, discrimination and segregation learning disabled and autistic people still face. Ingenious Fools is an independent production company that works with established and developing clients in comedy, spoken word and music.

OneFest provides an opportunity for learning disabled and autistic people to try new things, have exciting social opportunities and find a voice to demand more from the society they live in. It also provides a space for the community to come together and share experiences and culture.

The week-long festival, taking place throughout the week at venues like the Capo Lounge and The Old Library, will be bringing high-profile comedians such as Lost Voice Guy, children’s entertainer Jonny Awsum, live music from the electrifying band Back Chat Brass, as well as Nottingham favourite Tash Bird, plus much more.

There will also be accessible community workshop experiences on offer. From circus skills and life drawing to stand-up comedy, recording a pop song and finding your voice, it’s an opportunity to join up, feel like you belong and try something different in a friendly, relaxed environment.

OneFest kicks off with the ever-popular OneWalk, an accessible march that gives voice and visibility to learning disabled and autistic people. OneWalk provides an opportunity for everyone to march alongside, and in solidarity with, their learning disabled and autistic community members.

In 2019, over 900 marchers took to the streets of Mansfield, and they hope in 2021 that the community will once again come together and show that everyone stands together. This year’s theme is #NotSatisfied.

For more information, please visit https://onefest.oneconversation.co.uk