About Dramawerkz
Led by 3 young artists who were once students of the organisation, Dramawerkz is designed to be the space we needed in the west when we were young, and in that vain, has become a haven for a diverse group of young people who want room for self expression, connection and accessible arts education. Our core values of Community, Character, Creativity, Collaboration and Communicationare all actively represented in our organisation: which is as much about helping young performers shine as it is about building confidence and self worth for young people, generating a sense of community, and creating room for creative self expression.
Founded in 2006 by Lisa Collins, Dramawerkz provides performing arts programs and training for 8-25 year olds. Our programs, workshops and events build young people’s self confidence, initiative and collaborative skills through creativity, spontaneity and use of imagination. For two decades, Dramawerkz has provided an inclusive environment in which students can gain confidence as both performers and devisers: grounding an imaginative and play-filled process in technical and theoretical concepts.
Students have the opportunity to explore the creative process both in class and through a variety of performing opportunities including:
– Performances of original and previously published plays and musicals
– Participation in community events
– Annual Drama Camps
– Preparation for Trinity College, London, Speech & Drama exams.
Dramawerkz is based in Altona at the Louis Joel Arts and Community Centre, which serves as the Neighbourhood House for the local area. Alongside programs that train young people in performing arts and public speaking skills, we offer numerous activities to promote wellbeing and community connection for young people in the area: through camps, workshops, leadership opportunities and mentorship. Our programs operate with large age ranges, building mentorship and role-modelling into the fabric of the organisation, and encouraging positive connections across peer groups in the area. Our facilitators are trained across various sectors and disciplines: from the arts and music, to teaching, mental health and design.
Dramawerkz Theatre Inc is a not-for-profit organisation, with every cent going to create positive and meaningful theatre experiences for young people. You can read our Rules of Incorporation here.
In 2026, Dramawerkz turns 20!
Since 2006, Dramawerkz has worked with hundreds of young people in the area, many of whom are now thriving, driven adults in the community. Our approach - one that centres creative expression and self worth as central to promoting wellbeing - is what makes our spaces, peer groups and programs a positive “third place” for young people in the area.
We’re seeking support to keep Dramawerkz going, and allow us to continue programs, events and workshops that change young people’s lives.
Our fundraising goal of $5000 will allow us to:
- Host weekly free drop-ins for local young people to access after school, with games, art supplies, and peer mentors.
- Fund our yearly drama camp for teens, which will include 20+ students this year! This camp offers young people respite, creative activities and peer support throughout the July school holidays.
- Support our 20th anniversary concert, which will celebrate the talent and hard work of all of our students in June 2026.
Dramawerkz’s programs support wellbeing, combat school refusal, and promote creative self expression. You can view our 2024 impact report here.
“Youth doing amazing things; always thrilled to attend their performances. Still gives me chills thinking back to Acknowledgement of Country the group start a show with a couple of years ago. Wow.
Going from strength to strength under leadership of Mia.”
“Our granddaughter has blossomed and has become a confident young woman thanks to her involvement with Dramawerkz.”
“Mia is inclusive and has adapted to my sons needs and medical condition.
Over the years, Mia successfully incorporated her own tools which kept my son engaged and focused, in addition to recommendations from my his specialist reports. The skills learnt from Mia has transferred to his academic studies at high school where he’s also achieving great results.”
“My daughter loves the program.
It’s her favourite day of the week.”
“I love it because we can express ourselves and not worry about being judged.”
“Having our own space every week to have fun, learn new things, and make new friends while doing what I loved was so indescribably life changing for me and is something I believe every young person should have.”