PAJOMA COLLECTIVE

Pajoma/Collective

Pajoma = ‘Inclusive/collective’ (Swahili)

With funding from Cockayne Foundation, Arts Council England, Garfield Weston, The Woodward Charitable Trust and Leigh Day, ABC launched Pajoma/Collective—a thrilling new initiative placing Black and Asian, d/Deaf, disabled, and neurodivergent creatives at the heart of its storytelling. This inaugural performance was not just a show; it was a statement about the power of inclusion and representation.

Pajoma/Collective also served as a vocational training ground for emerging creatives who are underrepresented in the arts. Participants received conservatoire-style training in performance and theatre-making, working closely with a range of professional artists and mentors. The project enabled participants to deepen their craft, explore new forms of expression, and gain essential experience in a professional rehearsal environment. A significant emphasis was placed on craft-based learning—participants created character masks and worked with found and recycled materials to build and sculpt props and set elements, integrating visual art and design into the performance process. This practical, skills-based approach made Pajoma/Collective not only an artistic endeavour but also a vital pathway into sustainable creative careers.

A free performance, co-produced with Almeida Theatre, Bernie Grant Arts Centre, and Graeae Theatre Company, Pajoma/Collective’s debut production was a theatrical collision of past and present. An ancient god appeared on the streets of Tottenham, setting off a narrative that pulsed with energy, myth, and modernity. The ensemble cast delivered compelling performances, their chemistry electric, their storytelling utterly immersive.

Crucially, accessibility was embedded in the production’s DNA. British Sign Language, captioning, and audio description were seamlessly integrated, ensuring an inclusive experience for all audience members. This approach extended beyond the stage—accessibility was a cornerstone of the rehearsal process itself, fostering a space where artists could thrive. "This project has shown me that there’s a place for me in this industry," said actor Grace Kadanga. "I loved being in a space where it was safe to make mistakes and everyone’s needs were considered." Fellow performer Delano Byfield echoed this, describing the experience as one that left him feeling "mentally, physically, and emotionally stronger.”

Creative Team:
DIRECTOR Andrea Ling
PRODUCER Amanda Bright
SOUND DESIGNER Pouja EhsaeI
VIDEO DESIGN & CREATIVE CAPTIONING Virginie Taylor
MOVEMENT DIRECTOR Joseph fletcher
MASKS BY Garry Rutter & John Harmer
STAGE MANAGER Felix Dunning
SOUND ENGINEER Siddarth Mehra

BSL INTERPRETER SHARON GOLDSON
BSL INTERPRETER Jadeaana Odle
CAST ACCESS SUPPORT Alic Cover

Cast:
Delano Byfield
Juley-ann smith
GRACE KADANGA
SAKSHI CHANDER
RAYHAD ALI