ABOUT US
WHO WE ARE
OUR ORGANISATION
Stars and the Moon is a for purpose organisation that creates high-quality, inclusive theatre experiences for people of all-abilities. We are passionate about creating safe, joyful spaces where everyone is celebrated, both on and off the stage.
OUR PERFORMERS
Each year, over 160 artists, being people with and without disability participate in our programs. These performances are supported by up to 40 volunteers, creatives, and a small team of staff, who help bring our shows and activities to life.
WE ARE A REGISTERED NOT-FOR-PROFIT
Stars and the Moon is a registered not-for-profit organisation and has been endorsed as a deductible gift recipient. This means that donations of $2 or more are tax deductible. All of the funds we receive are reinvested directly into our programs so that we can continue to create content, offer support, and reach more people of all-abilities.
WHAT WE DO
THE CASTMATE MODEL
At Stars and the Moon, our work is built around the Castmate Model. Our unique approach where two or more performers support each other in exploring a role or performance together, with at least one identifying as neurodivergent and/or living with disability.
Castmates are performers who support each other throughout the production journey. We invented this model so our performers can consider and attend to each others' needs during rehearsals, maximally showcase their talent and build long-lasting friendships.
On stage, it helps us tell authentic, multidimensional stories and achieve a professional product. Off stage it means we all have fun!
OUR PROGRAMS
Our core offering is the “Inclusical,” a full-scale musical theatre production that brings together Castmates to perform side by side. We also offer other creative opportunities such as Design Club and various theatre skills workshops and showcases. Whether you are a performer, a designer, a stagehand, or simply someone excited to be involved, there is a place for you at Stars and the Moon.
HOW YOU CAN GET INVOLVED
We are always looking for new cast members, creatives, and volunteers who share our vision. If you are interested in joining the community as a performer, team member, or supporter, we would love to hear from you. Please feel free to reach out to us through our contact page.
WHERE WE ARE
We currently run our programs in Melbourne’s south-eastern suburbs. In the future, we hope to share the power of inclusive theatre more broadly by reaching new communities and audiences across Australia.
WHY WE EXIST
Stars and the Moon was founded in 2021 by members of the Melbourne Jewish Community, inspired by Jewish values of inclusivity and community. It was created to fill a gap by providing inclusive spaces where people of all-abilities could perform and feel seen, supported, and celebrated. Since then, the organisation has grown into a broader and more diverse community.
We welcome people from all cultural backgrounds, faiths, genders, sexualities, and political beliefs. Our work is grounded in the belief that theatre connects people and that shared creative experiences can foster understanding, belonging, and joy.
HOW WE RUN
OUR FUNDING
Stars and the Moon is a registered charity and fully compliant with the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission. We are funded through donations, ticket sales, and the generosity of our community. Every contribution goes directly to supporting our programs and the people they serve.
HOW YOU CAN SUPPORT US
There are many ways to support our work. You can attend a show, make a donation, volunteer your time, or help spread the word. Every action, big or small, helps us build a more inclusive and creative community.
HOW YOU CAN CONTACT US
If you have any further questions, we would love to hear from you. Please feel free to reach out to us through our contact page.
OUR SHARED VALUES
Theatre
Delivering full-scale theatrical productions, industry-standard training, skills development and performance opportunities.
Inclusion
Pioneering industry-leading approaches that engage with diverse and complex disabilities to enrich the artistic process.
Community
Establishing a supportive network that embodies our castmate model and grows our reach and impact.
