Next steps for theatre group

THEATRE group ‘(it’s no) drama’ is excited to be transitioning to an independent arts company later this year.

The group was established in 2015 to provide an opportunity for people with and without disability to express themselves through performance.

The ensemble was the dream of Emily Ardley who had participated in other drama groups closer to Melbourne. She thought there was a need – and a demand - for something similar in South Gippsland.

With assistance from South Gippsland Shire Council and a lot of hard work from Emily and other passionate locals, (it’s no) drama was established… and they’ve never looked back.

A big change came in 2020 when council secured a two-year Creative Victoria VicArts grant that could be used by (it’s no) drama to develop the performance group even further.

Samara Cunningham was engaged as artistic director along with a team of other talented individuals who were united in their endeavour to expand the all-abilities group and to coordinate productions that were inspiring and entertaining in their own right.

Their work is recognised as being high quality and demonstrates that people with disability can be involved in the production of art that is representative of their lives in this region.

(it’s no) drama have delivered many workshops and four large productions, including ‘Party of One’ that was filmed in the middle of the 2020 pandemic.

The theatre ensemble successfully redesigned their creative program to work within in a lockdown environment and were able to retain momentum.

The next big step for (it’s no) drama is to transition into a not-for-profit arts company. The team recently established a membership base and are thrilled with the number of people from within the South Gippsland community who are already actively supporting the new venture. Members receive a quarterly newsletter and will always be up to date on news of upcoming events and performances.

The (it’s no) drama team will continue to run their workshops online until the beginning of term two, when the ensemble will head back to the rehearsal room to create a brand-new performance for presentation later in the year.

South Gippsland Shire Mayor, Cr Mohya Davies, said: “South Gippsland Shire Council is so proud to have partnered with (it’s no) drama. The ensemble and the creative team are all so passionate about performance and in offering an inclusive environment for people of all abilities to be able to come together and express themselves. I am looking forward to seeing the evolution of (it’s no) drama and I’m excited to hear what is in store for their next big production.”

(it’s no) drama artistic director Samara Cunningham said the theatre group wouldn’t be possible without the passionate ensemble and a team of amazing people behind the scenes.

“We look forward to continuing to produce workshops and productions that everyone can enjoy, and continue our mission to become an independent, disability-led regional arts company that South Gippsland can be truly proud of.”

To find out more about (it’s no) drama, please visit itsnodrama.com.