The power of inclusion
'This production not only breaks new ground in inclusive theatre, but it also brings together members of the Jewish community in a remarkable way'
For Ingrid Bass, Disney’s Camp Rock: The One Act Edition is more than just a musical. It’s a testament to the power of inclusion, perseverance and the undeniable benefits of the performing arts.
The founder of Umbrella School of Music is bringing the production to the Zenith Theatre in March, celebrating inclusion within the Jewish community by utilising the buddy performance system – characters are performed by two or more actors, grouping performers with and without disability. For Bass, the Umbrella School of Music helps break down barriers and stigmas around disability. “Umbrella’s vision is to provide opportunities for everyone to reap the many benefits the performing arts can bring and have their moment to shine on stage,” she said.
But the road to Camp Rock wasn’t without its challenges. Bass spent months tirelessly raising funds and sourcing sponsors to get the project off the ground, following which she had to find caring, dedicated professionals to be part of her production team and support workers, as well as buddies without disability to work alongside the performers.
The final hurdle was working through NDIS legislation changes to music activities which looked to threaten the ability of some cast members to use their NDIS funding to participate in the project. But Bass was never deterred.
“This production not only breaks new ground in inclusive theatre, but it also brings together members of the Jewish community in a remarkable way,” Bass explained. “It supports some of the most vulnerable members of our community – those with disabilities. Some of our cast, crew and volunteers have strong Jewish ties and personal experiences with disability. This reinforces the show’s message of unity, resilience and a shared love of the arts.”
The cast includes a diverse group of 38 performers aged 9 to 59, with and without disability, each with their own unique journey and reason for being part of this groundbreaking production. Tracey Garrett, whose daughter Jessica has Down syndrome, said the opportunity has helped Jessica develop skills such as communication, teamwork and perseverance.
“From the auditions to rehearsals, she has grown in confidence, embracing every challenge with excitement and determination. Having a buddy without a disability has made the journey even more special – giving her a supportive friend to learn with, laugh with and share this experience,” Garrett said, adding that the musical will have a powerful impact. “Seeing people with and without disabilities come together to create something beautiful sends a powerful message about inclusion. I hope that the audience walks away with a deeper understanding and new appreciation for what inclusion really means – not just in theatre, but in everyday life.”
It’s a sentiment shared by many parents of cast members. For Tessa Ritchard’s son Oliver, who has fragile X syndrome, performing in the musical is a dream come true.
“He is thriving in this environment, gaining so much confidence in his abilities,” Ritchard said.
“The social aspect of the production has also been incredible for him and he enjoys working alongside his buddy without disability, building important teamwork skills. We hope that this project continues to provide him with more chances to engage with theatre, as it has been such a rewarding experience.
“Beyond that, we believe the project will have a powerful impact on the community and the audience, encouraging empathy, understanding and the breaking down of social barriers. It’s truly inspiring to see how the show is shaping perspectives and promoting inclusivity.”
Camp Rock is at Zenith Theatre from March 25-29. For tickets: trybooking.com/1340640.
For more information about Umbrella School of Music, visit umbrellasom.com.au
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