Monday, 09 June
9.35pm

Presented by Andrew Denton, The Music In Me, is a heart-felt tribute to the human spirit. This multi-award-winning documentary tells the inspiring story of a unique troupe of intellectually and physically disabled performers - the Merry Makers - as they prepare for the performance of a lifetime at the Sydney Entertainment Centre.
They're aged from six to 56, and through dance, their performances inspire even the most cynical. Anyone who's ever seen them perform can attest to the fact that they have an uncanny ability to lift spirits and put a smile on everyone's face. But that's not all they do.

Each Saturday for the past 28 years this unique group of people with disabilities ranging from fragile X, Down syndrome, autism and cerebral palsy have created a perfect little world where everyone is special and loved. For carers - most tellingly it's usually mums - the Merry Makers is also a place where they too can be themselves, forget their daily worries and watch their kids who just love to dance.

To artistic director and choreographer, Lucinda Bryant, (and her administrator mother, Janet) the organisation is a family where everyone involved has a sense of love and belonging. It doesn't happen overnight, but they change. In a suburban Sydney hall, both the parent and the child blossom in an atmosphere of love and support.
But the pressure is really on as tickets for the bi-annual concert at the Sydney Entertainment Centre featuring Australian musical luminaries such as Marcia Hines, Todd McKenney and John Paul Young have almost sold out. Whilst rehearsals for the concert intensify and the stress levels increase, Lucinda and Janet reveal the strength and advice they share in the running of the Merry Makers.

People with disabilities have been given a place in society - it's on the periphery where they can watch the world pass them by but not participate. Only the Merry Makers won't accept that place. The Music In Me tells of this unique group of human beings who have transcended their potential fate and found their own place in life... and that's centre stage.