Christchurch Communication Festival

MEDIA RELEASE

September 17, 2014

Christchurch Communication Festival

A free community concert, aimed at raising awareness about the challenges faced by adults with communication disorders, is being held at Cashmere High School Performing Arts Centre next month (1-2pm, Friday, October 3).

The concert is part of the Christchurch Communication Festival and involves performers whose communication abilities have been affected by neurological conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, Parkinson’s disease and Multiple Sclerosis.

Amy Eastwood, Canterbury DHB Speech Language Therapist, says communication is the most fundamental aspect of human capacities.

“Just imagine if you couldn’t speak for a single day, let alone a lifetime. Come and support these inspirational people in their quest to raise awareness about communication disorders.”

The concert is also part of the International Communication Project.

“This is a global initiative, which aims to highlight the importance of human communication – and how communication disabilities significantly impact every aspect of life,” Amy says.

It follows closely on the heels of New Zealand Speech-Language Therapy Awareness Week (15 - 21 September).

“Guest performers at the concert include the Cantabrainers Choir, Jolt dance group and other inspiring individuals who will share their experience of living with a communication disorder.”

The Cantabrainers Choir is a therapeutic choir for people with neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, Stroke and Multiple Sclerosis.

The choir aims to improve and maintain communication through physical, social and emotional means.

“It differs from other choirs as the singing is about learning to use the voice effectively, in a fun way; performance is less important. The choir is run by Therapy Professionals Ltd who provide a Music Therapist and Speech-Language Therapist to support the choir.”

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