Dada Fest launches a incredible programme of events for 2016

A photograph from  '11 million reasons to dance'

Since its inception in 2001, DaDa Fest has challenged ideals and celebrated disability culture.

This year’s exciting creative arts programme presents a range of incredible and inspiring work by both local and international artists.

Opening the festival is ’11 million reasons to dance’; a title which symbolises the eleven million people living in the UK with a disability. Featuring photographs inspired by iconic dance scenes from films, each scene has been re-imagined by deaf and disabled people who dance. Films re-imagined in the photographs include Gene Kelly’s memborable choreography in Singing in the Rain and scenes from the classic Hollywood film The Red Shoes.

Dada Fest will also feature theatrical performances, such as Maddy and the Invisible Band of Groovies. Presented by Invisible Flash Theatre, the story follows Maddy, a young girl who longs to be in the school play. Lacking in confidence, she enters a world of wonder when her grandad gives her a special box to open. Celebrating friendship, diversity and difference, this inspiration tale encourages audience interaction and is told by four actors. It is a tale about believing in yourself, told through song, theatre and puppetry.

Attendees can also participate in workshops throughout the festival, in addition to a series of events and performances at the Museum of Liverpool on 3rd December. As part of International Disability Day, the museum will host performances from artists such as the Riversign Choir, Dada Fest Young Leader Jordan and Tammy Reynolds. Workshops and events during the day are free to attend and open from 11am-4pm.

Dada Fest will be held from 17th November - 3rd December. To find out more, please visit the Dada Fest homepage.

By Sarah O' Hara