'Bold' new play Hidden Biscuit coming to Hexham this week

Hidden Biscuit will be performed at Queen’s Hall, Hexham, on March 20, launching in time for 2026 World Autism Awareness Day.

Those behind the play say it tells the true story of Richie Bow-Grace, a 'neurodivergent' individual. 

Hidden Biscuit is the result of a six-month research and development project funded by Arts Council England (Image: Supplied)

Mr Bow-Grace said: "Imagine compressing your whole self into a ‘freak drawer’ for 40 years — labelled ‘too much’ and ‘not enough’ at the same time.

"Decades spent hiding, shrinking, surviving.

"Abuse, adoption, misunderstanding… shaped by silence and rejection.

"This is the moment I stop hiding.

"I’m ready to share what that really felt like — and show who I truly am."

Created by Mr Bow-Grace and co-written and directed by Ali Pritchard, the play explores themes of "truth, resilience, and the power of perspective."

Hidden Biscuit is the result of a six-month research and development project funded by Arts Council England. 

The script is entirely audio-based, which the team said places "sound at the centre of the experience".

Those behind the play say it tells the true story of Richie Bow-Grace, a 'neurodivergent' individual (Image: Supplied)

A spokesperson said: "Growing up undiagnosed autistic, Richie transformed a life shaped by trauma into a powerful tool for connection, advocacy and storytelling.

"Over the past six years, he has supported more than 10,000 people face‑to‑face across 250+ schools and institutions, sharing a simple message: Autism can be awesome — and it’s okay to be me.

"A published author (The Art of Weeing in the Sink) and unflinching storyteller, Richie brings lived experience to the stage with honesty, humour and courage.

"Hidden Biscuit is the telling of his true story."

In addition to the play, Awesometistic CIC is offering workshops led by Lindsay Nicholson.

Mr Pritchard is the former artistic director of Alphabetti Theatre.

He was named in The Stage 100 (2023) and became Arts and Cultural Development Officer at Newcastle City Council in 2026.

The team behind the play said: "Hidden Biscuit contains themes and language that some viewers may find destressing including but not exclusive to experiences of trauma, abuse and rejection.

"These elements are included because they are true — and because sharing them has the power to challenge, change and improve society through imagination, not obligation.

"Audience members are encouraged to take care of themselves while engaging with the material."

For further details, contact the venue’s box office.