Making theatre accessible for families managing medical challenges
At Monkey Baa, we believe that theatre should be a space where everyone feels welcome, regardless of the challenges they may face. We’ve learned that some families managing medical conditions encounter barriers that make attending live performances difficult, if not impossible. We’re committed to finding practical, thoughtful ways to make theatre more inclusive, so more young people can experience the joy of live storytelling.
Why this matters
For families dealing with serious medical challenges, everyday activities like attending a theatre performance can feel out of reach. Whether it’s health risks, isolation, or logistical hurdles, the impact is the same—many young people miss out on the enriching experiences theatre offers.
Partnership with Camp Quality
Our partnership with Camp Quality is one example of how collaboration can create special moments for families going through difficult times. Together, we’ve provided tickets for families impacted by cancer to attend our shows, offering them a chance to step out of their day-to-day challenges and enjoy a shared experience in a welcoming environment.
Camp Quality has described these events as a way to bring “positivity, fun and laughter” to the children and families they support.
We’re proud to play a small role in creating these moments and grateful to work alongside an organisation that understands how meaningful these opportunities can be.
A special rehearsal for The Northern Sydney Pod School
When a group of families from The Northern Sydney Pod School reached out to us, explaining their unique needs, we worked together to find a solution. Their children, who face extreme risks from viral infections, cannot attend traditional theatre performances. So, we invited them to a private dress rehearsal of Josephine Wants to Dance that was adapted to their health requirements. The cast and crew even wore respirator masks to ensure the children could safely enjoy the experience.
The performance became a first-time theatre experience for many of the children. After the show, an outdoor Q&A session allowed them to ask the cast and crew all about the production—from costumes to quick changes.
One parent shared, “The opportunity you created was so special, thoughtful and kind… The children were absolutely delighted.”
For us, it was a privilege to meet these families and share a love of storytelling that left everyone inspired.
Pop-Up performances at Queensland Children’s Hospital
Recently, our Possum Magic cast visited the Queensland Children’s Hospital for an afternoon of storytelling, crafting and connection with young patients and their families. These small, informal moments often become some of the most memorable.
The children actively participated, sharing laughter and curiosity, with one even receiving special approval to leave their hospital room to attend. Another child proudly placed their crafted possum at the top of a display tree, saying it was “to look out over everyone.” For us, seeing the joy and energy the children brought to the room was a reminder of how theatre can uplift, even in challenging environments.
The future of inclusive theatre
We don’t see ourselves as solving these challenges alone—our work is about listening, collaborating and learning from the families and organisations we partner with. By working together, we hope to make theatre a little more accessible, one step at a time. These stories remind us of how much we gain in return—the privilege of hearing laughter, seeing wide-eyed wonder, and connecting with young people in meaningful ways.
Theatre has always been about bringing people together. At Monkey Baa, we’re simply grateful to play a small part in creating spaces where more young people can feel welcome, included and inspired.
