The Second Cycle engaged deeply with the Deaf, disability and Mad arts community, grappling with the idea of inclusion. National Arts Centre English Theatre launched The Second Cycle at the Stratford Festival in April 2016. The Second Cycle concluded in Ottawa in June 2017, when artists, leaders and students from the Deaf, disability and mad arts gathered for ten days for The Study, culminating in a nation-wide, two day immersive experience called The Republic of Inclusion from June 27–29.

The Study: Together participants explored the compendium of Deaf, disability and Mad art from across the country, and explored modes of inclusive performance creation practice. Eliza Chandler and Tracy Tidgwell participated in the Study.

The Study culminated with The Republic of Inclusion, a multi-day presentation and conversation event which aimed to participate in changing the shape of Canadian theatre and the processes by which it is made. Carla Rice and Lindsay Fisher attended the RIC.