Charlotte Stafrace
Time and again we read about the benefits of creative arts programmes. It is well documented that such programmes encourage self-expression. Stick with it, and there are many more advantages, even for those on the disability spectrum.
Opening Doors is an organisation empowering disabled youth to do just that. For the last 8 years, it has encouraged a large number of young people to take up the arts, in a bid to learn new skills, challenge themselves and strive forward and perform in various settings.
It goes from strength to strength. What started off as a small non-profit organisation, with a small group of members attending drama sessions, it has branched out into dance and also recently percussion, creating a strong umbrella of performers in various genres. All under the helm of its Artistic Director , Sandra Mifsud.
Through its theatre programme, our members learn the art of creating and telling stories through words, movement, sounds and puppetry. Our dance programme also benefits them by providing opportunities to build up strength, achieve better coordination, develop flexibility and a new range of motion as well as create stories through movement. Our latest discipline - that of percussion leads youth on a journey of music and rhythms which could lead to sole performance as well as support others.
Arts as a form of expression
Another benefit to the Arts is that they encourage socialisation. Whilst sharing collective experiences like those of a performance are exciting in themselves, they can also help enhance self-esteem and self-worth.
At Opening Doors, we provide an outlet for inventiveness and creativity. We create a space to breathe life into stories and shared experiences and connect these through our bodies and emotions. Many of our members have even travelled extensively doing just that !
Arts programmes like the ones offered by Opening Doors can also serve as an effective 'bridge' between members and their families, friends and indeed their community.
Opening Doors indeed opens doors to its young people by gently supporting them in achieving new goals. The possibilities are endless and the opportunity for performing can be a learning experience not only for the performers, but also for its audience.
Opening Doors is keen to keep growing - in its audience, in its bid to change perceptions towards disability and disabled artists and to create learning and fun opportunities for many. And for this journey thus far, we cannot but thank our sponsors and funders.
Our upcoming event will be a Dance Jam which will happen at St. Anne's Square in Sliema on 29 April starting at 5.30 p.m. There will be street dance, percussion and much more. In May Opening Doors will also present a collective performance incorporating dance, percussion and theatre. Come join us and support Opening Doors. You can keep up with our events, or even become a member by getting in touch with us through our Facebook page.