The Glass Ceiling Arts Collective is a new Arts charity which supports people from marginalised communities, with a major focus on young people with disabilities. We have a unique point of difference as all our programmes are based on inclusive participation; we welcome people both with and without a disability.

For many, it’s the first time siblings can enjoy an activity together. And for parents and grandparents; it’s often the first time they get to see their children performing together on the same stage. You could almost argue we’re a mental health and wellness organisation, more than an Arts organisation. We’re based on the North Shore but participants travel in from all over Auckland.

Last year, in April 2021, Glass Ceiling Arts Collective were grateful to The Bobby Stafford-Bush Foundation, for their generous support of our production of Disney’s Shrek The Musical Jr. at The Rose Centre in Belmont.

Since then, we’ve had a remarkable year; navigating the challenges presented by the COVID pandemic as we roll out our inclusive youth theatre classes throughout New Zealand (in partnership with Manatū Taonga The Ministry of Culture and Heritage, and Arts Access Aotearoa). Today we offer weekly classes to young people with Disabilities and their friends and siblings in West Auckland, South Auckland, Rodney, Tauranga and the North Shore.

Early in 2022, our North Shore class expressed an interest in presenting another grand musical theatre production at The Rose Centre; Disney’s High School Musical Jr. Again, we would like to thank The Bobby Stafford-Bush Foundation who immediately offered their support for the show.

High School Musical Jr. was a roaring success, with four sold out shows from 17-19th June (400 seats approx.). Many people commented on the sheer joy that was obvious in the faces of our young cast members, especially during the ensemble numbers.

The trustees of the The Bobby Stafford-Bush Foundation should be very pleased; knowing that the legacy they set up in honour of Bobby is making a real and positive difference to many young New Zealanders and their whanau, and helping to make our communities more inclusive.

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Andre Annabellegreer-morley