Dance Troupe with Intellectual and Physical Disabilities Visit Disneyland

A dance group of children and adults with intellectual and physical disabilities from Sydney will be performing at Disneyland in California this week.

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The Merry Makers group includes performers aged from six to 56 who have improved their social skills through regular dance rehearsals and performances at events across Australia.

The Minister for Disability Services, Peter Primrose, said the group's performances had been acclaimed around the world. He said that the NSW Government had given the group a grant of $10,000 towards the cost of their tour.

"The Merry Makers are a good demonstration of what people with a disability can achieve," Mr Primrose said. "To be invited to a major attraction such as Disneyland must be a huge honor for them and a sign of The Merrymakers' international recognition.

"The NSW Government supports people with a disability in many fields, from the arts to sport and education, to make sure that they are given the same opportunities that all members of the community enjoy."

In November, the NSW Government will again run the Don't DIS my ABILITY campaign in the lead up to the International Day of People with a Disability on December 3.

The campaign celebrates and recognizes the achievements of people with a disability and challenges misconceptions surrounding disability. Up to 150 events are held throughout metropolitan and regional NSW.

A documentary made about the group called The Music in Me has won awards at major film festivals around the world. For more information on The Merrymakers visit: www.merrymakers.com.au