02/03/2026
Behind the Scenes – The Creative Development of
I’m Still Here
This behind-the-scenes video captures the heart of the creative development of I’m Still Here — a First Nations-led musical theatre production that shares the lived experience of Lani McLachlan, a Wailwan and Wiradjuri woman with disability who survived more than 30 years of homelessness and systemic exclusion.
https://vimeo.com/1169449912?share=copy&fl=sv&fe=ci
The play is a story of resilience, truth-telling and cultural strength. It confronts homelessness, intergenerational trauma, gendered violence and disability discrimination, while celebrating survival, identity and the power of community. At its core, I’m Still Here is about visibility — refusing erasure and reclaiming narrative authority.
The footage reveals the collaborative process shaping the work:
Gayle Kennedy, acclaimed writer and scriptwriter, has created the screenplay of Lani’s story, bringing cultural knowledge, insight and narrative integrity to the stage.
Elizabeth Wymarra, actor, embodies Lani’s journey with depth, humour and strength, working closely with Lani to honour the authenticity of her lived experience.
The late Uncle Kutcha Edwards contributed musically to the work, and his powerful influence remains woven into the heart of the production.
Dyagula, Wiradjuri Songwoman and vocalist, shares language and voice as living cultural strength, grounding the production in Country and continuity.
Jack Hickey, Yidaki player, carries rhythm, breath and connection to Country through sound, creating an immersive sonic landscape.
Peta Link, Costume Designer, grounds the visual storytelling in lived experience and healing practice, shaping garments that hold memory and transformation.
Creative Director Gbenga Yusuf brings depth of theatrical experience and a strong commitment to social justice, guiding the work’s emotional and visual language.
Co-Producers Lani McLachlan and Belinda Mason OAM lead the vision of the production. Lani’s voice and lived authority remain central to every creative decision. Belinda co-wrote Lani’s Story with Dieter Knierim, forming the narrative foundation from which the stage work has evolved.
This video offers an intimate glimpse into rehearsals, music sessions, script development and creative dialogue — revealing a team united by respect, cultural care and a shared commitment to telling this story with integrity.
I’m Still Here is not only a theatre production. It is an act of testimony, collaboration and collective healing.
