Flying Solo #2 - Disability Documentary - Tracie Teaches Acting Classes

This is part two of “Flying Solo”, a feature documentary about three adults with Down syndrome and the challenges they face on their journey to become independent. Filmed over five years, this self-financed documentary began as a short film project while I was attending film school in Australia in 2013.
My decision to follow the lives of participants Digby Webster, Tom, and Tracie wasn’t accidental. Just a year earlier, I had been diagnosed with autism. For a lot of my life, I felt marginalized because of my disability. The film to me was a chance to foreground the often overlooked capacities and contributions of people with disabilities.
“Flying Solo” is a social impact film also geared towards raising public awareness about a national shortfall of alternate accommodation options for adults with disabilities. Unlike group homes, these housing models (such as the Abbeyfield model) are designed towards promoting individual independence and continued community involvement.
“Flying Solo” aired on ABC Australia’s “Compass” program as two episodes in 2018. I believe the film’s message is as relevant as ever, and so I am making it available to view for free in four parts on KZbin. To ensure this film is accessible, I personally prepared captions (in English).
Part 1: bit.ly/2VAOlOE
Part 2: bit.ly/3yB43I4
Part 3: bit.ly/3jtozE8
Part 4: bit.ly/3fLTudQ
Full synopsis: Sydney resident Digby Webster, a talented artist who dreams of one day moving out of his parent’s home. His friend Tom Elenor fantasizes about stardom but struggles with the responsibilities that come with living independently. Award-winning actress Tracie Sammut now wants to teach acting and put a stop to industry stereotyping. All three of them have Down Syndrome, a disability that society doesn’t always understand, or accommodate. As they take their first strides towards independence, they face new challenges and opportunities that will test their resolve. In their struggle to find a balance between dreams and reality, can they fly - or will they fall?

[@EssyKnopf]

There are two things in this part of the film I really want to highlight. Firstly, Tracie's capabilities as a teacher. She always showed up and brought her all as an acting teacher. What struck me was that if given half the chance, she could really flourish in this role. And yet few opportunities like this exist. Secondly, I want to raise up Tom's resilience. Living on one's own isn't easy, but his passion for soap operas was a source of strength for him. It isn't just about escapism for Tom; it's about imagining an ideal world he wanted to create for himself. With enough structure and support, that world can become reality, as we see in Digby's story. Was there any part of this section of the film that surprised you?

[@EssyKnopf]

Love to hear that!

[@melanytodd2929]

Tracie is beyond awesome ❣️

[@notenoughrope]

Just love Tracie, an inspiration!

[@heidieho2980]

I absolutely Love this!!! Fantastically encouraging!!!!

[@melanytodd2929]

Thank you for this ❣️🙏 Just wanted to say your cinematography s beautiful 😍

[@bridgettebiddell8398]

Amazing

[@lauratenorio7239]

You guys are the real hero’s in life. This is why I am passionate about my job. I wish we had more of these opportunities in America.

[@melanytodd2929]

I wish we had something like this in South Africa 🇿🇦