The Twisting Ducks Theatre Company

Our vision: A society that values the diversity, creativity and citizenship of people with a learning disability and autistic people.


What we do: Working with people with a learning disability and autistic people across Tyne & Wear and Northumberland, we support over 800 people a year to express themselves creatively, build social connections, and achieve aspirations as performers, musicians, and DJs.

We’re delighted to announce...

Three new performing arts groups in Northumberland!

For people with a learning disability and autistic people


From September 2026, we will be launching… 


Youth Theatre in Morpeth
For young people aged 10–19. Explore drama, storytelling and performance, develop creative skills, make friends and create your own plays.


DJ Academy in Blyth
For people aged 16+. Learn DJ skills with support from a professional DJ and have the opportunity to perform at events and club nights.


Performing Arts Academy at Alnwick Playhouse
For people aged 16+. Work with experienced theatre practitioners to develop skills in writing, acting and directing. Create original plays and perform live at Alnwick Playhouse.


Find out more and sign up

What's On 

Upcoming performances and events

Discover our programme of performances,

gigs and club nights

Find out more

Join our groups and academies

Find out more about our Performing Arts,

Band and DJ academies

Find out more
19 August 2026
The Twisting Ducks is delighted to have six fantastic supporters taking on the AJBell Great North Run on Sunday 13th September 2026. The team includes dedicated supporters and members of staff, who collectively aim to raise £1,500. All funds raised will directly support The Twisting Ducks’work with people with a learning disability and autistic people across Tyne and Wear and Northumberland. Among them is Conor, who said: "Having worked in the Theatre industry myself as well as studying & graduating with a Masters Degree (MA) in Theatre, I've seen first hand what incredible work charities like Twisting Ducks do towards bringing accessibility and opportunities to those who have difficulties accessing theatre." Cat, Drama Facilitator at The Twisting Ducks, said: "Working for The Twisting Ducks over the past 5 years has been a privilege I can't explain and I see first hand the work that this vital money goes into. Arts organisations in the North East need every little bit of help right now and charities like The Twisting Ducks are more than just theatre and fun, they're community, they're agency, and they're a vital life line for so many people. This will be my second time running the GNR for the ducks and last year's training made me fall in love with running and hilariously changed my life too. I have M.E./CFS and this is a chronic illness/disability that I've lived with now for most of my life. Running has transformed my relationship with my body and I'm so beyond grateful for the experience and for everyone's support that got me there and through lots of tears and many packets frozen peas on my knees. Last year's goal was to simply get to the end in one piece and this year's goal is to do 2 half marathons in one year! Completed the EMF and now we're onto the GNR again. Any donations, no matter the size will be massively appreciated" Sonia, Drama Facilitator and Drama Support worker at The Twisting Ducks, said: "I have been lucky enough to have been working for this fantastic charity for the last five years. It would mean a great deal to me if you could spare a moment to help raise some money to support this wonderful cause." 60,000 determined and dedicated runners make the AJ Bell Great North Run the World’s biggest marathon – famous for its warm North East welcome, unbeatable atmosphere and the millions raised for good causes. The Twisting Ducks Theatre Company provides accessible arts opportunities for people with a learning disability and autistic people across Tyne and Wear and Northumberland. The charity supports over 800 people a year to express themselves creatively, to develop their skills and social connections, and to achieve their aspirations as performers, musicians and DJ's. Meet Team Twisting Ducks Let's cheer on our fantastic team of runners as they take on the AJBell Great North Run and help make a difference! Visit their individual fundraising pages (click the links below) to follow their progress and donate today.
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Spotlight on The Twisting Ducks:
Inspiring Stories & Inclusive Theatre
Hear from our partner theatres - Newcastle Theatre Royal, The Customs House, Arts Centre Washington, and Northern Stage -  as they share their thoughts on why The Twisting Ducks Theatre Company is such a valued part of their programmes and communities.