InterACT Disability Arts Festival

Overview

The annual InterACT Disability Arts Festival returns for its third year; with a diverse range of free performances and workshops over the three-day event.

Founded by Paula Crimmens, it highlights the fact that living with a disability is no barrier to artistic talent. Some of the stand out performances include the play Let Me Stay by UK writer and performer Julie McNamara. It's a tender exploration of the impact that Alzheimer's can have. McNamara has recorded her mother's songs and stories - filming and taking pictures of her over many years. Now woven together, the half remembered songs, interrupted conversations and embodiment of the spirit of her mother have resulted in a compelling piece of theatre. An extraordinary love letter filled with comedy and compassion.

Australian blind opera singer Janelle Colquhoun’s To Be or Not To be Excellent outlines the impact of her disability on her international career. Through her involvement in over 900 mainstream and disability events, she discusses her tips for the marketing and promotion of excellence.

Drawing upon his passion for sustainability and recycling, Andrew Hall heads a workshop based around art created from recycled, man made ‘found’ materials. Working with students to create 3D sculptures and explaining the reasons why he uses such materials, Hall draws new life from discarded objects.