Sometime ago Marie Henderson learnt to walk; now she can fly. That was one of the discoveries an appreciative audience witnessed, at Henderson’s Corbans Estate, Mau theatre. Over 100 people gathered to attend the interacting drama, “The World in Focus,” presented by FOCUS 2000 and the Cerebral Palsy Society. All were thoroughly entertained.

Marie was lifted from her wheelchair by a harness and she soared through the air like an elegant swan, finally coming to rest, into the palms of the audience.

There were other discoveries to be made. Damon Hini has a penchant for, bomb laden, action movies which can be doused by wheelchair firemen and Lynette Loye worked in a dairy that had 72 toilet rolls in one large box. Allyson Hamblett, with paint brush in hand, sparked off a great finale. The show climaxed in the unveiling of huge, colourful pieces of material, acknowledging that paint was the fundamental inspiration of this group. All items were great fun and emotionally charged.

Yung Chen summed up the attitude of all the players when he said “Don’t underestimate me.”
“The World in Focus” was a performance focusing on capabilities, with individual disabilities shoved to the background.

Great use was made of video, throughout the show, which gave the audience insights into the world of the players. Congratulations to the director of this Focus drama group, Paula Crimmens who supported the performers, to tell their story with dignity and respect.

Pre-performance, guest were invited to enjoy tasty Hors D’oeurves over a glass of wine, or the beverage of their choice, whilst seated at one of the many stylishly decorated tables, especially set up for the occasion.

Hopefully an encore is not too far away.

Ross Flood- Editor
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