Madeleine, a disabled theatre-maker and performer, has been acknowledged by the Australian arts industry for her commitment to creating accessible theatre.
The UniSQ Master of Arts student was the inaugural recipient of the Arts Access Australia National Leadership Award at the National Arts and Disability Awards in Canberra.
Through her UniSQ postgraduate study, Madeleine tested accessible theatre practice conventions in her original theatrical work, Hold, which was performed at the Roundhouse Theatre in April 2019.
Her research explored the role of leadership in creating an environment for artists and arts workers with disabilities.
'My research has affirmed what I’ve known for a while, that theatrical works can be equal parts compelling and accessible, and disabled-led creative processes are key to achieving this in an authentic and respectful manner,' she said.
'I hope that this research and my creative practice have an impact on the wider theatre sector, and creates professional performance opportunities for d/Deaf and disabled artists in Queensland and throughout Australia.'
