Elevate the Stage

On International Day of People with Disability (IDPwD), a unique free concert featuring some of Australia’s top artists, with and without disability, will be performing live at ICC Sydney from 4pm – 6:30pm on Sunday 3 December 2023.

An event that promises to be a beacon of unity, acceptance and diversity, Elevate the Stage will be a spectacular showcase of talent on IDPwD – a United Nations initiative observed annually since 1992. 

Performers include (but are not limited to):

• Paulini Curuenavuli

• Soprano Amelia Farrugia performing with opera singing sensation Tim McCallum

• Peter Cousens performing with StarAbility 2023 winner Lauren Weber

• Singer Mick on Wheels

• Rock guitarist Rex Goh of Air Supply, Eurogliders and other popular bands

• Instrumentalists and singers, Lara Nakhle and Connor Wink

• Jazz vocalist Emma Pask

• Comedians Tahir Bilgiç and Jamal Abdul and entertainer and athlete Paul Nunnari

To be hosted by journalist Nas Campanella, and three-time Paralympic gold medalist and two-time Commonwealth Games gold medalist Kurt Fearnley AO, other acts to add their magic to this truly unique event will include: Maestro John Foreman OAM, DJ Matt Medcalfe, the StarAbility Dancers, the Talent Development Project, the NSW Schools Signing Choir, wheelchair ballroom dancers and many more.

Event ambassador and actress Paula Duncan AM says Elevate the Stage is not about dwelling on the challenges of living with disability; it’s about breaking down barriers for people with disability and encouraging more inclusive attitudes and behaviours among all Australians.

“Elevate the Stage is a fantastic opportunity for performers with disability to showcase their talents along with fellow professionals. It’s a chance for all of us to celebrate achievement and hard work through performance and importantly, in front of new audiences,” says Paula.

The brainchild of Fran Eustace and John Trevillian AM of JT Strategic Solutions and Events and largely organised by a dedicated group of volunteers, Elevate the Stage is intended to become the pinnacle event of Australia’s annual IDPwD festivities.

In Australia, annual recognition of IDPwD is a joint effort between government, schools, community groups, businesses and individuals. There are many ways people can be part of creating an inclusive and diverse community. To learn more, visit idpwd.com.au

Elevate the Stage is generously backed by presenting sponsor Nova Employment, and 1000 free tickets are now available to the first who register to attend the concert at ICC Sydney’s Grand Ballroom via Humanitix.

For enquiries specific to Elevate the Stage, email elevatethestage@gmail.com or call 0410 664 564.