~ Oscailt ~

Oscailt is Féile an Phobail’s Disability Awareness Project. Oscailt (‘Open’) is about equal opportunities and access to all forms of the arts for people with a disability, and strives to promote disability awareness. Féile encourages people with disabilities to attend our events and also to organise their own as part of our annual programme.

Highlights throughout the year include dramas, music events, dance events and art and craft workshops through its work with schools and disability groups in Belfast. Work which takes place on continuous basis all year round is showcased within all of our three festivals.

“Having worked with disability groups not only in Belfast but the rest of Ireland and the in the UK, I know just how important this project is to all those who have been involved in it. There is a surprising lack of awareness in society as a whole surrounding disabilities and the Oscailt programme aim’s to promote the abilities, as appose to the disabilities of the groups, which we work with. We provide the groups with a voice and a platform to showcase their endless talents and achievements.

“Oscailt is a powerful catalyst in inspiring confidence and independence in people who can sometimes underestimate themselves and who are more often than not, underestimated by society. Anyone who has been in the audience at any of the Oscailt performances should be left in no doubt or confusion about the ubiquitous talent and abilities of the groups which take part.” – Margaret McKernan, Disability Development Officer.

For further information about any aspect of Oscailt please contact Margaret Mc Kernan (Disability Development Officer) on 028 90313440 or email her. The Oscailt Project is supported by North and West Health and Social Services Trust and Arts Council Lottery Fund.