Client: SEAAC
Sector: Community
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SEAAC – Case Study

Southern Ethnic Advisory and Advocacy Council (SEAAC) and Melbourne Playback Theatre Company created an innovative program that engaged newly arrived young migrants living in the City of Case called SeaACT (SEAAC Theatre).

After extensive assessment by SEAAC the needs of these young people were met by tailoring a specific arts program, which provided a vehicle for expression. Specifically concentrating on personal stories, the program was designed to reduce isolation, normalise experience, improve language skills and break down negative stereotypes. This benefited the participants and also the community at large.

Multiple practical studies have shown that sharing personal stories is extremely helpful in allowing new immigrants to move forward in a positive direction, especially those who have had a traumatic past.

The Objectives

  • Increase equity and access to creative self-development.
  • Enhance self-esteem, self-confidence and critical thinking.
  • Build stronger peer support networks.
  • Provide an opportunity for young people to share stories about the challenges they face.
  • Strengthen community by increasing understanding and tolerance between different cultures and groups

The Approach

MelbournePlayback Community Performances
Two Professional Melbourne Playback Shows

Youth Playback Workshops and Performances
An eight-week drama program conducted by two Melbourne Playback facilitators at the local community centre. In the final week, the young people perform to the community.

Professional Development and CALD Community Workshops
An “Introduction of Playback” workshops to up-skill local Community Development Workers and Community Leaders.

“When my little brother Mustafa told the story about our family separated from our Uncle at the refugee camp…I cried when we saw Melbourne Playback perform it… The workshops have given me the best opportunity to share what we have gone through.”

Murtaza, 17 – SeaACT participant

Download

Download this case study (PDF)

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