'A room full of joy': Why Leeds’ groundbreaking disabled-led arts festival is going out with a bang
In 2018, Sam Judd sat in front of his television and watched Lost Voice Guy win Britain’s Got Talent.
For Sam, who uses a wheelchair and an electronic communication aid (AAC) like the comedian, it was a lightning-bolt moment.
"I felt this tremendous sense of pride," Sam recalls. "For maybe the first time in my life, I felt connected to something bigger than myself and comfortable with who I was. Seeing his performance showed me just what I could achieve."
Fast forward to 2026, and Sam is the producer behind You Can Laugh You Know, a Leeds-based organisation that has spent the last three years proving that disability is not a limitation, but a lens for world-class creativity.
On April 4, the team will take over Archive in Kirkstall for their 20th and final festival, a star-studded farewell headlined by the very man who inspired it all: Lost Voice Guy.
Far from a mere comedy gig, this year’s festival is a mixed-media takeover featuring music from the likes of Red Lady and Ding Frisby, and a special screening of the award-winning romantic comedy My Friend Orson Welles.
Directed by Sam and starring Paralympic medallist Jack Hunter-Spivey, the film boasts a 50% disabled cast and crew.
"You can’t just put on a diverse face without diversity behind the camera," Sam explains. "Jack was a delight; he messaged me about the film first. I had to remind myself I was talking to a Paralympic medallist. He’s human, he makes mistakes, he lives, laughs, and loves.
“His disability is mentioned, but it’s not the point."
A centrepiece of the afternoon is the Disabled Comedian of the Year competition, judged by BGT finalist Alex Mitchell.
For Alex, the goal is simple: find the best comic, full stop: "The winner shouldn’t be decided purely on disability," Alex explains.
"We’re looking for someone who can stand out when it might otherwise be difficult to. Stagecraft, writing, and creativity are the fundamentals."
Sam agrees, noting that while disability shouldn't define the artist, it shouldn't be ignored either.
"Don't bring up my disability out of nowhere, but don't painfully avoid the subject. We need to acknowledge and then move on so we can see the individual."
The importance of Leeds accessibility
Choosing a venue like Archive was intentional.
While Leeds often ranks highly in UK accessibility indices (recently placing 10th nationally), Sam is quick to point out that the reality on the ground - or the pavement - is different.
"Leeds still has a lot of work to do," Sam says bluntly. "Bumpy pavements, lifts you couldn't swing a cat in that break every five minutes, and a public transport system not set up for big wheelchairs like mine.
“Accessible venues are often more expensive, which is ridiculous. Event organisers can be lazy and use cost as an excuse, but being accessible is actually a unique selling point."
The festival is raising funds for a cause close to the city’s heart: The Rob Burrow Centre for Motor Neurone Disease.
"Rob left such an incredible mark on this city," Sam says. "I want this festival to build on the work he started."
As for the future of You Can Laugh You Know? While this is the end of the road for the organisation in its current form, Sam’s final words are cryptic: "Watch this space."
For those heading to Kirkstall in April the "vibe" is already settled.
"Expect a room full of joy," Sam promises. "An acceptance of difference, and an opportunity for everyone to be themselves."
Tickets to this year’s You Can Laugh You Know Festival are currently on sale, with prices starting from £8 and proceeds supporting The Rob Burrow Centre for MND. Visit TicketTailor for more information or to pick up a ticket today.