Something That Happened is a new stage show, created by Merrigong’s own Strangeways Ensemble, supported by The Disability Trust. In the 90-minute show, there are powerful performances from the cast, all of whom identify as neuro-diverse. The themes of the show include inclusion, representation of people with disabilities on the big screen and daring to follow one’s dreams.
I wanted to see Something That Happened as a long-term Strangeways supporter and as a fellow neuro-diverse person.
The story starts in the rehearsal room, with the actors playing themselves. They are auditioning for an international talent scout, for roles in John Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men. Each cast member explores the possible characters they could play. They discuss the challenges and barriers that are often faced by people with a disability in terms of representation on the big screen. These powerful conversations and heart-felt insights are offset by the moments of sheer comedy and laughter, as the characters do their best to ‘audition’ for Steinbeck’s production.
A memorable moment for me was when Rachel shared her dream to sing on Young Talent Time with Johnny Young. This leads into a duet on Somewhere Over the Rainbow with “Johnny Young”. I couldn’t help but be uplifted watching Rachel’s joy as she sang. The cast’s musical talents were evident throughout the show, in particular supporting Rachel during her duet.
Something That Happened uses technology to give depth and innovation to the actors’ storytelling. A wired camera provides live feedbacks of the cast as they develop their audition tapes, complete with green screen and close-ups. The video captured towards the end of the show is cleverly used in montage, blending live feed with mind-bending pre-recorded reels. The overall effect was fantastic, with all elements seeming very cohesive throughout the show!
As an audience member and also a client of The Disability Trust’s junior drama program, I am continually inspired by the Strangeways Ensemble. They provide a platform within the creative arts to represent people with a disability. The show’s themes of inclusion, representation on the big screen and following your dreams are powerful and emotive. I also enjoyed the strong musical component of the show – the live music and singing, an exciting change since their last show I saw, Trash Talk (2020).
Overall, this show is thought-provoking and powerful in its concepts. It had drama, comedy, emotional and an intriguing use of technology. I highly recommend this show, performing at the IPAC until September 23.
About the writer
I am 17 years old, and have been involved in The Disability Trust’s Mischief Makers’ junior drama group since 2017. This has allowed me to write, develop, and perform in shows with my friends. Attending Mischief Makers has assisted me in developing my social and communication skills.