A Sydney-First Inclusive Musical Fostering Inclusivity, Diversity and Connectedness
At Umbrella School of Music, we pride ourselves on providing a community where music, singing, and movement become powerful tools for expression and personal growth. Our programs cater for both children and adults, with and without disability.
This groundbreaking initiative is designed to foster inclusivity, showcase diversity, and bring joy and connectedness to our community. What makes this show unique is the innovative ‘buddy model’ which groups an individual child or adult without disability with another individual (or two) with disability, to share the same character role.
To put on the show with the love it deserves, we are still looking to raise more funds.
If you do not require a tax receipt, please donate to our GoFundMe.
Our Journey to Inclusiveness & Accessibility
Our commitment to providing inclusive performing arts opportunities dates back to 2017 when Ingrid Bass, the current Principal Facilitator of Umbrella School of Music, introduced classes for children and adults with disability at her previous school, Applause Musical Theatre Academy. The transformative journey of these students, marked by their growth in learning, confidence, and captivating stage performances, was simply priceless.
The joy radiated not only on their faces but also extended to their families and the entire audience, forming a heartwarming spectacle. This beauty expanded further as we witnessed friendships blossom when those with disability interacted with students without disability, being supported and celebrated by them, fostering an accepting and caring school community.
To explore the origin of Umbrella School of Music, click here.
Grouping Performers for an Inclusive and Insightful Spectacle
Fast forward to 2021 where Ingrid’s daughter, Sophie, found inspiration and personal growth in the innovative and inclusive ‘Stars and the Moon’ theatre group in Melbourne. Through their productions, Sophie not only formed lifelong friendships but also acquired valuable life skills. Witnessing the enchantment of ‘SpongeBob the Musical’ ignited Ingrid’s determination to bring a similar transformative, inclusive theatre experience to the heart of Sydney!
Following the winning formula of ‘Stars and the Moon,’ our inclusive musical will pair individuals with and without disability, having them buddy up as the same character in the production. Together, they’ll share costumes, lines, solos, and parts, creating a harmonious stage experience that celebrates diversity and a powerful narrative of unity. This production will empower individuals of all abilities and disabilities to shine and share their extraordinary talents and strengths.
Photo credits to Stars and the Moon Page
Our Exclusive Pilot Workshop
Thanks to funding from the Willoughby City Council, the project kicked off with an engaging workshop to introduce potential cast members to each other and experience first hand singing, dancing and acting activities from the show.
Next, we held auditions and began the challenging role of casting each character into pairs (or groups of three for the larger roles) where a person without disability could learn with and support another person (or two) with disability so that everyone had a chance to shine on stage.
Behind the Scenes: Rehearsals, Costumes & Prop/Set Design
Rehearsals have been in full swing now for 15 weeks, with 6 more to go! Our talented cast are collaboratively working hard to bring their characters to life – portraying them in which ever way they can whilst sharing lines, parts and solos. And what’s more, they are all having fun together and forming friendships that we expect will continue long after the final applause!
Check out this exclusive behind-the-scenes video from our rehearsals! See the cast’s dedication, talent and joy as they prepare to take the stage.
During the school holidays, we had fun purchasing costumes (thanks “Big W” which by the far had the best range!) and have been busy with repairs to make them stage-ready.
Here are some photos of our amazing cast in costume! Spot those in the same costumes…
Now, our focus has shifted to sourcing and creating props and sets to transform the Zenith Theatre into the two rival camps – Camp Rock and Camp Star! Who will win the Final Jam? The excitement from our cast and families is building as we move closer to showtime but we need a full audience…
Get Your Tickets Now!
Don’t miss the chance to witness this one-of-a-kind production! Tickets went on sale to the public (our families had first choice) but there are still many great seats available! BOOK NOW to avoid disappointment (click on the button) or use the QR Code below!
Whilst we would love to honour Companion Cards, we are unable to absorb the costs and cover our production costs as well. Concession tickets are available for $30 for seniors, people with disability and carers.
To book a wheelchair seat and a regular seat near it (if required), please call the theatre directly on 9777 7555.
Support Our Production
Our production expenses currently stand at $40,000 and it’s not too late to contribute. Every donation, no matter how small, makes a big difference. Please use the QR code or click on the button below to donate via our GoFundMe page to help us make this show as accessible and awesome as possible!
Our Official Partners
We would also like to thank many families, friends and other individuals who donated thousands of dollars towards our project.
Some cast members (along with Umbrella) are even sponsoring others so they can participate in rehearsals – we feel blessed that our cast community supports our vision to make this opportunity accessible to everyone!
Trusted By Our Community
Driven by the conviction that every voice deserves to be heard, we are setting out on a mission to dismantle barriers and cultivate a profound sense of compassion and togetherness in the community.
How lovely is this video created before this project started of three adults with disability expressing what benefits music brings them? Incidentally, all three of them are performing principal roles in our upcoming musical!
So come celebrate with us and witness what can happen when people of all abilities join together to create something truly spectacular. This is more than a musical; it’s a celebration of diversity and creativity, breaking down barriers and stigmas—all wrapped in the magic of live theatre.
Don’t Miss Out! Reserve Your Seat Today!
Get your tickets now and be part of theatre history. Join us at the Zenith Theatre in Chatswood
on March 25, 27, or 29.
Celebrate the power of inclusion, diversity, and the performing arts with Disney’s Camp Rock: The Musical by supporting our show and sharing this flyer below with your networks.
Join us on this extraordinary adventure, where we champion diversity, foster friendships, and revel in the sheer joy of creating music together!