As published in Redlands Community Leader | 30 June | Page 34
An unforgettable evening of dance, theatre and art was recently held to celebrate the talents of young adults with disabilities from Wynnum’s Blue Tongue Adventure. The first-of-its-kind Jamboree was a heartwarming showcase of inclusion, expression, and creativity. Families, friends, carers, and community members responded with explosive cheers and proud smiles as performers took to the stage to share their stories through movement, music, and singing. The evening offered participants a chance to shine in front of an audience that embraced and celebrated their individuality. From upbeat song and dance routines to unique theatre works, the performers poured their heart and soul into each piece. The Jamboree was the result of months of dedication, not only from the participants but also from Laura Shaw and Jack Twelvetree, both graduates of the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA). Over the past few months, the dynamic duo worked closely with the Blue Tongue participants from Brisbane and Toowoomba through their theatre program - designed to build confidence through movement and voice. Directing weeks of rehearsals across both locations, Laura and Jack, together with the Blue Tongue Adventure care team, were able to produce a truly fantastic display of diverse talent and creative expression. Their support behind the scenes helped transform any nerves on the night into excitement and pride, and gave all performers the tools and courage to step into the spotlight.“We wanted the night to be a loud, proud, no holds-barred celebration, bursting at the seams with talent, colour, sound and spirit,” says Laura of the event.After the curtain call, the evening continued with an art showcase featuring vibrant visual works created by many of the Blue Tongue Adventure artists in their Art + Soul programs, led by Art Director, Emma Macgregor. From canvas paintings to paper mâché sculptures to hand moulded ceramics, the exhibit transformed the space into a gallery of colour and unique masterpieces, many of which were quickly snapped up by eager guests. In a world that often overlooks difference, the Blue Tongue Jamboree reminded everyone present of the beauty of inclusion and the extraordinary talents that exist when people are simply given the stage.
“Everyone deserves a place in which to express themselves. A place to be seen,” says Jack. “This was that place.”The Blue Tongue Adventure team hopes that this event will be just the first of its kind, and are excited at the possibility of future performances, and continuing to create inclusive opportunities where young adults with disabilities can express themselves creatively. Blue Tongue Adventure runs day programs for young adults with disability, weekdays 9 am – 3pm in Wynnum. For more information contact our team today.
