The world’s most famous horror comedy whānau, The Addams Family, moved into Papakura recently, staging a spectacular season at the Off Broadway Theatre.
The Addams Family Young@part was partly funded by a Papakura Local Board grant and chair Brent Catchpole says residents probably have no idea the board involves itself with theatre.
“But this is theatre with a difference. The stars are all part of the Glass Ceilings Arts Collective, a group dedicated to allowing those from marginalised communities to take part.
“Many of the stars, and they were stars, came from within the disabled community and seeing them acting alongside their able-bodied friends is a great experience.
“They soon stop being actors with disabilities because they just become actors.”
Catchpole says he’s no theatre-critic but urges everyone to back shows that support diverse communities.
The Glass Ceiling Arts Collective is a charity dedicated to ensuring young people with disabilities aren’t defined by them, and have the same chances to enjoy the performing arts as their non-disabled peers.
Glass Ceiling's general manager Michael Eaglesome says the group often talks about the value its shows bring to the young performers.
“But equally important are the huge mental health and well-being benefits they bring to parents and caregivers, in particular to families of disabled children.
“They are too often told what their child can't do, or won't be able to achieve, but our programme shows them what amazing things their children are capable of.
“Our work is informed by the Government’s Enabling Good Lives initiative, which recognises that everyone benefits when we build inclusive communities.
“It’s about ensuring disabled people are supported to live an everyday life in everyday places, and that they have the opportunities for learning, employment, to have a home and family, and for social participation, that anyone else has.”
The Addams Family are about as spooky and quirky as they come, and mum and dad Morticia and Gomez would like to keep it that way. But when their daughter Wednesday falls in love with Lucas Beineke, a sweet boy from a normal family, she invites his family round to meet hers.
“Let’s just say it does not go well - unlike the show,” Catchpole says.
“As a board we want to do what we can to be inclusive. If chipping in so aspiring actors can do their thing is a way to achieve that, then we are fine with that.”
If you want to support the group, visit https://www.glassceilingartscollective.com/
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