Orange Civic Theatre is delighted to launch ‘Compareo’ – inviting adults with disabilities into the theatre to explore the performing arts through weekly classes.
OCT have partnered with local professional performer Catherine McNamara, who has co-designed and facilitated accessible performing arts programs for the past 13 years.
On offer is a 4-week taster course, starting on 18 March. After this, classes will continue for the rest of 2026.
‘Compareo’ is Latin for “be visible, be present”, and these workshops are an empowering and skills-based way to build confidence, self-expression and share your creative flair!
Catherine has run the Compareo program in Bathurst for the last few years, with some of the participants joining the cast of children’s show ‘ViV!’ last year.
These are a safe and positive space for connecting with others and building your social networks.
When: Wednesdays from 12:30-2:30pm. Starts March 18.
Where: Orange Civic Theatre
More information: More information on the Orange Civic Theatre website.
Register: To express your interest in the Orange classes contact the Orange Civic Theatre Box Office on (02) 6393 8111 or email theatre@orange.nsw.gov.au
BATHURST COMPAREO CONTINUES
In 2026, the Bathurst version of the Compareo program is growing. There is now one additional class, giving you more choice and flexibility. The existing Tuesday 12:30pm class will continue as usual, now adding a new, additional, Tuesday 10am class.
When: Tuesdays at 10am or Tuesdays at 12.30pm. Starts January 27.
Where: Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre.
More information: More information on the BMEC website
Or contact the BMEC box office on (02) 6333 6161.
Register: CLICK HERE TO REGISTER INTEREST FOR THE BATHURST CLASSES
Compareo is an initiative of Local Stages at BMEC program.
In 2026 Arts OutWest has taken on the financial admin of the Bathurst Compareo program and brokered the program expanding to Orange.
Image: Compareo members Rebecca, Denley and Brianna performing on stage in ‘ViV!’ in 2025./ Photo Henry Simmons.