Ep 8: Let's Get Writing with Paul David Power

This show looks at the art of playwriting with actor/writer/director Paul David Power. His original play, Crippled, is a personal story that grew from his need to deal with grief after the sudden loss of his partner. Paul is also an inspiration for his work as an artist living with a disability.

 

Paul David Power has spent the past 20 years working as a writer, actor, director and communications professional in various mediums and for diverse organizations - including dramatic script for the stage. His formal training includes holding a BA in English with a concentration in theatre and a BAA in Journalism. Paul has a long history in raising awareness and understanding about disability issues through his work as a playwright, columnist, director and actor.

 

His work includes several years directing and acting with the Shakespeare by the Sea Festival in Newfoundland and Labrador where he currently holds the position of Artistic Associate. He was President of the Liffey Players Drama Society in Calgary for three years. In 2010 Paul moved to Moncton NB where he assumed the role of Artistic Director for Hubcity Theatre in 2013. He held that position for four years. Paul currently heads his own production company - Power Productions - which offers corporate communications services as well as producing theatre projects focused on deaf and disability themes.

 

Along with "Crippled", Paul's other produced works as a playwright include the award-winning "Roomies" and "Last Chance".

 

Paul has been highlighted in the media many times for his work as an artist living with a disability - often inspiring and leading the way for younger artists who face their own challenges and disabilities when it comes to succeeding in the arts.

 

Paul is one of 13 Deaf, disabled and Mad Arts Leaders from across the country who participated in the National Art Centre's 2016 -2017 Cycle. The Cycle was a year-long process that explored diversity in our national theatre scene and how artists can work to expand and strengthen disability arts in Canada. The process concluded in Ottawa in July 2017 with The Republic of Inclusion. Paul is committed to applying what he learned during this process to projects and initiatives in his own community as well as other areas of Atlantic Canada. Paul David Power

 

Bio Link: https://www.crippled.ca/playwright.html

https://www.crippled.ca https://www.ted.com/talks/paul_david_power_the_view_from_down_here

 

Episode originally recorded at the Rogers TV studio in Grand Falls-Winder on March 4, 2020