Words & Photos West Coast REACH Association
“Music and performing arts have such potential and power to touch hearts and change lives,” says Anne-Marie Brimacombe, “and REACH does that so effectively.”
Founded in 2017 by Sidney residents Anne-Marie and Peter Brimacombe, West Coast REACH Association now produces seven dynamic programs with three unique performing groups throughout Greater Victoria and on the Peninsula. They also produce two major shows annually, and REACH performers are featured in many other community events throughout the year.
REACH brings people together through music, from all sectors of the community. About half of the 40-member REACH! All-Abilities Performing Company have a significant disability. The others are members of the community who love music and people, including a number of very experienced performers. A Youth Mentorship Program also gives young performers in their 20s and early 30s an opportunity to develop their performance and show production skills, experience working with others in this group with very different abilities, and to solo in REACH shows. Songs with positive messages are chosen, and simple choreography and sign language are incorporated into their performances. “Audiences are amazed and uplifted by the positive energy, joy and calibre of this very diverse and unique group” says Anne-Marie. “So many cheers and tears!”
REACH also has a Children’s Chorus including seven- to 13-year-olds on the Saanich Peninsula who love performing and making a positive difference in the community. This inclusive, non-auditioned group often performs with the REACH All-Abilities Performing Company. They were also featured in a Sidney Community Christmas Singalong at SHOAL Centre in December that attracted hundreds of participants.
REACH also has a group of about 20 members who sing in soup kitchens and long-term care facilities each week, bringing music and smiles where they are needed most. Plus, REACH offers music programs for those new to Canada to learn English through song, a recreational music and movement program on the Peninsula for adults with developmental disabilities, and a wonderful All-Abilities Open Mic Coffee House in Victoria. “You can’t imagine the diversity of talents and abilities on that stage” says Anne-Marie, “and all are loved, encouraged and appreciated.”
REACH programs are often presented in partnership with social service organizations including Garth Homer Society, Our Place Society, Beacon Community Services, ICA and VIRCS. Their show in the Fall commemorates Human Solidarity Day and the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. Their next show on Sunday, May 24 will be an afternoon Celebri-Tea (show and tea) in Sidney, in the Mary Winspear Centre (Bodine Hall).
www.westcoastreach.org
