Shared Space
Originally this program began as "Open Mic Nite" – an opportunity for anyone in the Stella Burry community to sing a song, recite a poem or tell a story. From its earliest days, this event has been extraordinarily popular and drew significant crowds of participants some of whom came only for the camaraderie and fellowship only. As time wore on, the event evolved into Shared Spaces, and has taken on a full blown cabaret atmosphere with extraordinary performances offered by a diversity of participants who feel safe and welcomed – so much so that they can get up on stage and belt out their favourite tune, backed up by a range of instrumentalists comprised of staff and other participants. The result has been phenomenal personal growth for those who have displayed their musical talents, and given confidence to those "not ready for prime time". The result has been an upsurge in confidence for participants who feel ready to conquer the world after their debut on the Shared Spaces stage.
Shared Spaces is an affirmation of transformative power of music and celebration. Many program coordinators report that they can always tell who has participated in Shared Spaces, as they are positive and motivated the next day and infuse they colleagues with the same “anything is possible” attitude that is a remarkable by-product of this community building activity.
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