They are a diverse group, ranging in age from 6 to 56, most of whom have an intellectual or physical disability, but all of whom refuse to be defeated by the enormous challenges life has dealt them.
The Merry Makers dance. Anyone who’s ever seen them perform can attest to the fact that they have an amazing ability to lift spirits and put a smile on their audience’s faces.
But that’s not all they do.
What the Merry Makers do best is perform miracles. Countless times parents bring their son or daughter along to class having previously been given little hope for their personal development. And, whilst it doesn’t happen overnight, the regular structure of the rehearsal program provides a wonderful opportunity for the developing social skills of these special individuals. In a suburban Sydney hall every Saturday both the parent and the child can blossom in an atmosphere of love, acceptance and support. To the parents, siblings and friends, the gradual and consistent progress of the ‘Merries’ is often miraculous!
A registered charity endorsed by the Australian Taxation Office as a deductible gift recipient,
Merry Makers Australia is run entirely by dedicated volunteers.
STOP PRESS Due to the overwhelming response to the recent screening of The Music In Me
on Enough Rope with Andrew Denton, a full length version of this multi-award winning documentary film plus additional never-before-seen footage will be available on DVD through ABC Stores in October.
