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The Purple All-Stars | John: An unknown life

  • Trestle Arts Base Russet Dr St Albans, England, AL4 0JQ United Kingdom (map)

John lives in supported accommodation and receives regular care from his carer, Sue. He works at a local café and travels around town using public transport. A devoted science‑fiction fan, John often feels lonely, though he has a girlfriend and supportive parents who visit him regularly.

The play follows John through a single week of his life, his routines, his frustrations, his joys, and the moments of connection that help him navigate the world. Through John’s experiences, the story highlights the resilience, humour, and humanity of people with learning disabilities, while also revealing the barriers they face every day.

Saturday 22 Aug, 4.30pm
Tickets: £5


This production is created by Purple All-Stars, a company made up entirely of neurodiverse performers. Every member of the cast brings their own lived experience, creativity, and voice to the stage. The play was written by Kate Harding, drawing directly from collaborative workshops in which the cast explored the everyday challenges faced by people with learning disabilities.

Although some personal experiences have been adapted to fit the story and characters, the play remains rooted in real events and real emotions. The cast wanted to share these truths with the wider public to raise awareness, deepen understanding, and spark conversation about the realities of living with a learning disability.

The production is dedicated to the memory of Paul, a man with a learning disability who was a member of the team for many years.

@thepurpleallstars