Dance for EveryBody

Despite its breathtaking views of Mount Barker Summit, the venue's beauty was rivaled only by the spectacular smiles of the dancers participating in EveryBody Dance!

This event was a creative collaboration between the Australian Dance Theatre (ADT) and members of the disability community, with support from Community Living Australia. The inclusive performance marked the culmination of a six-week creative workshop program, conceived and funded by Mount Barker District Council.

Each workshop emphasised the joy of connecting with people and place through movement, focusing on the process over the performance. Under the guidance of ADT teaching artists, participants created a beautiful and moving experience for the audience at UKARIA.

For many participants and their carers, who also took to the stage, EveryBody Dance was their first experience performing in front of an audience. Their evident pride and delight brought tears of joy to their families and loved ones in the crowd.

During the post-show Q&A, CLA Chief Executive Mark Kulinski shared his love for dancing "as a way of letting my hair down," adding, "tonight isn’t just about dance, it’s about being part of a true community, something which is so important to all of us."

CLA Chairperson, Jill Coombe expressed her gratitude, stating, “It was so lovely to see and feel genuine enjoyment and expression through dance. Our clients gave so much of themselves openly for all of us to celebrate. What a fabulous evening!”

Adrianne Semmens of ADT echoed this sentiment, saying, "It’s been such a beautiful experience and opportunity for us at ADT to share and connect with the community. EveryBody Dance has left me feeling so inspired and proud."

The council had the entire project professionally filmed and the documentary will be screening later this year on Channel 44.