JustUs Drama
We are not disabled. We are people....
We are getting it to the audience that we are “JustUs” - Clem, JustUs member
Formed in 1991, the JustUs drama group is a performance based arts project that caters for people with an intellectual disability.
JustUs meet one day a week (Thursdays from 11.30am - 3.30pm) at the Centre for Creative Ministries Hall, East St Kilda. JustUs weekly workshops take place during the school terms and also provides company members with additional experiences through performance opportunities links to other drama groups, and connections with other activities in the City of Port Phillip and the broader community.
Around 12 members participate in the program on an ongoing basis.
Staff - the group's current Artistic Director, David Wells, is supported by Support Workers Marjetka McMahon and Philippa Armstrong. David, Philippa and Marjetka all have extensive experience working on participatory, high quality community arts projects inclusive of people with disabilities, and bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to JustUs.
Through their involvement in JustUs, members have the opportunity to:
- Develop drama, music and performance skills through weekly drama workshops
- Perform at local festivals and events
- Perform in major productions (annually)
- Collaborate with other drama and performing groups
- Attend performances by other theatre companies
- Work on special projects, developing particular skills
- Develop friendships, increase confidence and have fun!
Past Performances
JustUs have performed at Parliament House, Gasworks Art of Difference Festival, the Global Garden Party and Polyglot Theatre. Their major production Box Fish was performed at both the Art of Difference Festival and the Polyglot Theatre.
2007 Major Production
Hang On a Minute - one man's journey to fiend friendship
Hang on a minute played to full houses at Theatreworks in November 2007, and received both popular and critical acclaim. The JustUs ensemble showcased their unique and diverse skills including, dance, percussion, mime, improvisation and movement.
Funding
The City of Port Phillip receives funding from The Department of Human Services, Southern Region, and the council provides support and direction through is Access Arts Development unit. The City of Port Phillip recognizes the central role, which the arts and cultural development play in building community identity and celebrating diversity within that community.
All photos by Fiona Brook.
For more details, please contact the Access Arts Development Officer via eServices or phone ASSIST on (03) 9209 6777 or TTy (03) 9209 6713.
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