Reinventing the Protagonist: A Creative Writing Retreat for Deaf, Disabled, and Neurodiverse Writers
- Dan Coast
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
Dates: 27–29 March 2026
Location: Tŷ Newydd Writing Centre, Llanystumdwy, Gwynedd
Application Deadline: 12:00 noon, Wednesday 3 December 2025
Literature Wales, in partnership with Disability Arts Cymru, is thrilled to announce the return of its acclaimed programme Reinventing the Protagonist. This unique opportunity invites Deaf and/or Disabled and/or Neurodiverse writers based in Wales to join a residential creative writing retreat, followed by online one-to-one tutorials and a sharing event in June 2026.
About the Programme
Building on two successful years online, the 2026 edition will bring up to eight writers together for an immersive in-person experience led by internationally renowned playwright and writer Kaite O’Reilly. The course is designed to challenge stereotypes, explore fresh perspectives, and celebrate voices that have been historically excluded from mainstream narratives.
Participants will engage in:
Workshops using examples of poetry, fiction, and plays by Disabled and Deaf writers.
Discussions and writing exercises to reinvent characters, narratives, and language.
One-to-one tutorials for tailored feedback and guidance.
Kaite O’Reilly explains:“I created Reinventing the Protagonist to explore, celebrate and facilitate fresh perspectives from writers previously excluded or overlooked. This residency offers an extraordinary opportunity for creative exploration, skill-building, and community.”
Who Can Apply?
The programme is suitable for:
Writers committed to developing their craft.
Those who wish to explore their disabled identity or lived experience in creative work.
Applicants must submit:
An application form.
A short extract of creative work (around 1,000 words or up to five poems).
Accessibility
Disability Arts Cymru will work with successful applicants to ensure full accessibility, including:
BSL interpreters.
Live captioning.
Personal assistants.
Documents in suitable formats.
How to Apply
Complete the application form and submit your writing sample.
For questions or support:
Email: post@literaturewales.org
Call: 01766 522 811 (Tŷ Newydd) or 02920 472266 (Cardiff)
Join the virtual drop-in session on Tuesday 4 November 2025, 1:00–2:00 pm.
For full details on eligibility, course content, and FAQs, visit the Literature Wales website.
Supported by: Disability Arts Cymru, The Fenton Arts Trust, and the National Lottery through the Arts Council of Wales.
