Northampton’s Royal & Derngate will host the premiere screening of a powerful new short film, Project RockClimber, chronicling one man’s extraordinary journey to the summit of Mt Snowdon — and far beyond.
The screening, on Thursday 21 August at 6.30pm, marks the first public showing of the film by Nick Wilson, the award-winning disability advocate and digital creator better known as The Disabled Adventurer. The event will take place in the recently refurbished Underground Studio and is sponsored by AJM Choice.
At the heart of Project RockClimber is Nick’s pioneering solo ascent of Mt Snowdon in July 2024. He became the first disabled person to complete the climb using an experimental, all-terrain powered wheelchair — an invention now known as The RockClimber.
“This is more than a personal achievement,” Nick explains. “It’s a story of collaboration, innovation and believing in better. The RockClimber chair quite literally saved my life – and now, it’s helping others see what’s possible when accessibility is approached with ambition and care.”
Developed in partnership with Elliot and Andrew, co-founders of Rock Engineering in Towcester, the RockClimber represents a bold reimagining of what assistive technology can be. The film traces the relationship between Nick and the engineering team, revealing how their shared vision was forged at a time when Nick’s physical health and mental wellbeing were at a crisis point.
The evening will include a post-film conversation between Nick and family friend Peter Keil, who will speak publicly for the first time about life with his son Jude, aged 12. After a year in hospital, much of it on a ventilator, Jude’s life has changed dramatically – but Peter will share how outdoor adventures have helped the family adapt, and how Nick’s work has had a profound impact on their outlook.
The event will be attended by local councillors, community leaders and disability advocates, and will also raise awareness for the Wheelchair Alliance, a UK-wide campaign for improved access and visibility for disabled people.
Jo Gordon, Chief Executive of Royal & Derngate, said: “We’re proud to host the premiere of such an important and uplifting film. Nick’s story and the work being done by Rock Engineering are a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when creativity and compassion meet. Accessibility is a core value for us as a venue, and this event reflects that commitment.”
The venue has been designed with inclusivity in mind, including wheelchair-accessible spaces and microphone support during the Q&A to ensure all audience members can take part.
Tickets are free, but donations are welcomed at the point of booking.
Full details and reservations: https://royalandderngate.co.uk/whats-on/the-disabled-adventurer/
