How It All Started

Aubergine has an extensive track record of delivering high-quality, inclusive arts programming since 2020, with a focus on supporting neurodivergent, disabled and queer communities.

2020
At the start of the pandemic, we launched online arts and crafts workshops funded by Arts Council of Wales and Disability Wales. These workshops were brilliantly received, offering an antidote to the isolation of lockdowns. Participants consistently praised the sense of connection and reduced loneliness these provided.

2021
Building on this success, we expanded our programming to include online performances, such as a scratch theatre night attended by over 50 participants. As restrictions lifted, we transitioned to in-person events while keeping an online component to maintain accessibility for those unable to leave their homes.

Attendees regularly shared that these events were uniquely welcoming and accommodating of neurodivergent needs, setting a standard rarely found elsewhere.

2022–2023
With funding from Ty Cerdd, we expanded our programming to include music open mics, songwriting workshops, & recording sessions. These events saw significant growth in attendance and impact. Participants consistently praised the organisation, with several performers saying it was the first time they’d been paid to perform.

2024

Our current Arts Council-funded Arts Programme is going incredibly well, attracting new people to the organisation and generating consistent fantastic feedback. Having completed about half our planned activities, we’ve had 30 events, over 200 attendees, with new talent emerging and our community thriving.