We chat with Ingrid Bass, Principal Founder of Umbrella School of Music, who uses singing, music and movement to improve the lives, skills and confidence of children and adults with disability. Her latest passion project is an inclusive one-act Disney musical of Camp Rock, bringing people of all ages, abilities and disabilities together to create outstanding theatre with social impacts extending beyond the stage!
Tell us a bit about this inclusive musical…
We are so excited that Disney has approved our special ‘inclusive musical’ model for the production of Camp Rock, which will take place from 25-29 March 2025 at the Zenith Theatre in Chatswood.
What’s so unique about this project is that for the first time in Sydney, each character in the production will be portrayed by two people (children or adults), one with disability and the other without disability. Together they will share costumes, lines, solos and parts.
Stars and the Moon Musical: Each character is portrayed by an actor with a disability and the other without disability. Ingrid’s daughter Sophie was in this production. Image courtesy: Stars and the Moon
The idea to launch an inclusive musical in Sydney was inspired by the inclusive Stars and the Moon Theatre Group in Melbourne. Image courtesy: Stars and the Moon
How did the idea come to fruition?
My own daughter Sophie was involved in two productions in Melbourne with “Stars and The Moon” who have this buddy model pairing adults with and without disability together playing the same role in the show. When I witnessed their version of Spongebob the Musical, I just knew I had to bring this idea to Sydney!
Not only was it a beautiful celebration of all the diverse cast members but Sophie herself has said how being a part of the production helped her learn to be more patient, understanding and accepting of all people – in fact she now has several good friends with Down Syndrome and autism whom she connects with regularly. How awesome is that?
Why are you so passionate about an inclusive musical, and what do you hope to achieve?
The main purpose of this project is to help break down stigmas and barriers in access, equity and beliefs around disability. I want to show how capable people with disability are in the performing arts and to create a more kind, understanding and compassionate community.
What financial support have you received for the project so far?
Thanks to Willoughby City Council sponsoring the launch of the project, we will hold a Pilot Workshop project on 23 June at Willoughby Park Centre from 3.30-5.30pm. Participants will meet our production team (some of whom have a disability themselves) and get to learn to sing, dance and act snippets from the musical.
Willoughby Mayor Tanya Taylor and karaoke participants at Umbrella’s teen karaoke event on March 24
Marcello singing at Karaoke night
Dancing at the Karaoke night
What are some challenges you’ve experienced in launching this project?
So far we have received over 40 expressions of interest to be at the workshop and in the musical! However, I only have 13 participants who do not have a disability and so I really need to attract buddies for those children and adults who do have a disability. Click here to apply to be in the cast.
I also need to raise around $33,000 to support the production by 23 June so we can confirm dates and details. So far we have raised almost $7,000, but still have a long way to go. I have applied for four grants, but it’s a very competitive process and not guaranteed with only up to 20% of projects being successfully funded. Make a tax-deductible donation here or donate via their Go Fund Me page.
How to support this inclusive musical & get involved
Spread the word to family and friends! Share the posts on Facebook and Instagram
Apply to be in the cast! Complete the application form here! Students doing the Duke of Ed can participate to fulfil their skills component.
Financially support the inclusive musical. Make a tax-deductible donation here. Alternatively, you can donate via their Go Fund Me page.
Any businesses or individuals who donate $500 or over will of course be acknowledged on their website, social media channels and in the show programs!
