Michelle's Story (ATOM Study Guide)

At the peak of her career, Michelle Ryan was one of Australia's leading artists, dancing under the direction of Meryl Tankard at the Australian Dance Theatre. From there she toured the world until she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. Betrayed by her body, she lost her career, mobility and marriage. Despite her damaged confidence and physical impairment, in a chance moment, she is drawn back to dance, eventually becoming artistic director at the Restless Dance Theatre, an Adelaide-based company working with young people with and without disability.

Michelle's Story is an uplifting film that offers insight into the world of dance and disability, and the liberating power of art.

Curriculum guidelines

Michelle's Story would be suitable for middle, senior and tertiary students in the areas of Personal Development, Health and Physican Education, Dance, Performing Arts, Film and Media Studies, English, The Arts and Social Studies.