Jump to content


Robert removes his clothes on stage, pulling off his socks.

If These Spasms Could Speak


  • Audio Description
  • Open Captioning
  • ISL Interpreted
  • Loop System

September 25th – 27th 2014
at Dublin Theatre Festival
Project Cube, Project Arts Centre, Dublin

We know you want to look, to stare even. It’s OK. You’re allowed…

If These Spasms Could Speak is an outstanding solo performance based on a collection of funny, sad, touching and surprising stories about disabled people and their bodies.
Created and performed by Robert Softley, it exposes a truth behind bodies that differ from the norm. His own narrative – told with wry humour, charm and sincerity – is woven through with video interviews and monologue in an engaging and highly charismatic way. It is both a challenge to society’s perceptions and desire for classifications, and a celebration of being alive.

A sell-out hit at festivals and events across the UK, If These Spasms Could Speak is a tender and uplifting theatre experience.
Contains strong language.

All performances audio described and captioned
Sign language interpreted performance: Sept 27th 2014
Presented by Dublin Theatre Festival. Supported by Arts & Disability Ireland and The British Council.

Participants at Robert Softley's Workshop during If These Spasms Could Speak

Participants at a workshop with Robert Softley while he was in Dublin with If These Spasms Could Speak at Dublin Theatre Festival 2014

Workshop with Robert Softley during Dublin Theatre Festival

Participants at a workshop with Robert Softley while he was in Dublin with If These Spasms Could Speak at Dublin Theatre Festival 2014

Watch: If These Spasms Could Speak by Robert Softley/The Arches UK at Dublin Theatre Festival 2014

IfTheseSpasms_EoinCarey_14

Robert Softley performing in If These Spasms Could Speak at Dublin Theatre Festival 2014

Watch: If These Spasms Could Speak by Robert Softley/The Arches UK at Dublin Theatre Festival 2014
with audio description

Robert Softley performing in If These Spasms Could Speak at Dublin Theatre Festival 2014

Robert Softley performing in If These Spasms Could Speak at Dublin Theatre Festival 2013. This performance was audio described, captioned and Irish Sign Language (ISL) interpreted.

Find out more about how audiences with disabilities can access the arts

Return to top of page