The schools taking part in Shining Stars 2019 are: Bankstown Public School, Broderick Gillawarna School, Revesby, Earlwood Public School, Hampden Park Public School, Punchbowl Public School, Wangee Park School, Campsie, and Yagoona Public School.
Smitha George, who teaches an IM class at Bankstown Public, said: “The program has had a positive impact on their social skills, encouraged them to work in a group and increased their level of confidence all while working in an environment outside their comfort zone.
“The audience will be in awe and wonder watching the showcase.”
Michelle Davies, Shining Stars organiser, says the show has challenged audience expectations of students with disability since its inception in 2013.
“Whenever these students perform, people are blown away,” Ms Davies said. “There’s nothing tokenistic about this show, it’s straight out and out student ability.
“Many of our returning students take on the role of dance captain and help some of our students who use wheelchairs move about the stage.
“For our students it’s always harder to find opportunities to see that success, and the fact that they can bring so much talent together after just four workshops for each ensemble is truly magical.”
The three shows will feature a combination of dance, drama and musical performances, with a visual arts exhibition open for an hour before the performances begin.
They’re on offer at Campbelltown Arts Centre on Thursday, September 19, at 7pm and Friday, September 20, at 12.30pm and 7pm.
Tickets: trybooking.com/BEHAC.