When it started to rain there was standing room only
When it started to rain there was standing room only in the covered venues at InterACT 2017. But that was perfect.
It meant the workshops and classes at the annual disability arts festival at the Corbans Estate Arts Centre in Henderson were full of festival-goers wanting to have a go at the activities on offer.
In 2017, the IHC Foundation provided funding to Interacting Theatre to run InterACT2017 – a three-day festival showcasing performances, classes and workshops in Auckland. The Foundation has supported the festival since 2011.
The festival was held for the seventh year running in October-November. It attracted 4800 visitors over three days, there were 29 performances on the main stage, a wearable-arts parade each day and a display of artwork by more than 40 exhibitors.
Interacting Trust Chair Rod Wills said the wet weather on two days kept more festival -goers inside, who became the informal audiences for many of the workshops and drop-in sessions. Workshops were held in drumming, dance, clowning, hip-hop, looped recording music-making and masks. There were also drop-in sessions where participants could make comics and a poetry zine. Drop-in sessions included jewellery-making, face-painting and costuming.
Interacting community filmmaker Hank Snell made a documentary during the festival, assisted by festival participants.
Festival Director Paula Crimmens says the event is well-supported by special schools and disability providers. “It’s a great vibe. The atmosphere is terrific – it’s very affirming. When people ask, ‘Shall I perform?’ I say you will kick yourself if you don’t.”
Paula is now looking for performers to sign up for InterACT2018, which will be held at the same venue from 31 October to 2 November 2018. Email her on interactfest@gmail.com or phone 09 8495595.
For expressions of interest, go to www.tinyurl.com/interactfest18