Alex’s Appreciation to Theatre

Hi everyone,

I wanted to offer an update about the era of theatre arts for people with special needs. On November 10, 2021, I attended the Beauty and the Beast performance at the Olney Theatre Center. I was impressed by the production that casted an actor with one missing leg who portrayed the Beast. Given his role in the scenes, one of the things that inspired me was when he navigated the stage with a walking stick and used his talent to act the same way as the actual character. I was seated in section 150 that is several rows away from the stage with some accessible spaces to fit wheelchairs and walkers. Despite my visual impairment I sat on the left side of the aisle so I could have a better view of what’s happening throughout the entire performance. The scenery was colorful and nature-like. 

  It’s been many years since I got passionate about theatre. I became actively involved in the Columbia Center for Theatrical Arts in high school. The program is designed to promote an inclusive environment for students with and without disabilities. Thankfully my drama teacher provided me with the support and opportunity to form connections with peers whom I worked with.  My good friend Jake and I partnered in Wizard of Oz and High School Musical. During rehearsals he and I went over the scripts to memorize our lines. The best part about the school’s drama program is that accommodations were made to address my needs. For example, my performing partners gave me “tapping cues” when it’s my turn to sing and speak the lines. I also relied on them to roll my wheelchair around the stage to protect me from possibly falling. My friends took the time to adapt ways of communication which has helped me understand the conversation by lip-reading. What I have learned from my acting experience is that it enabled me to develop strong social skills and creativity. Theatre is one of the most fun activities I have ever participated in. 

  I feel the show I attended recently relates to my past experiences. One of the members of the cast is physically limited and also showed powerful expressions as the main character. The performance taught me about how theatrical companies recruit actors with disabilities and assign each individual a specific role that fits their needs. In the near future I’m hoping to try out ArtStream where adults with disabilities engage in performing arts. During COVID there were no options that work for me which left me isolated from the drama community. Now that things changed back on, I’m optimistic about returning to my old lifestyle and be a performer again!