As we approach our 9th anniversary of creating theatre and film for, with, and by individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, it's a good time to reintroduce who we are and all we do. A.B.L.E.’s programs provide a vital space for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to share their authentic selves and build community while developing courage, collaboration, and creative skills that support them in and out of the rehearsal room. In this video, you'll hear from actors, volunteers, and program leadership about how A.B.L.E. is building more inclusive communities through the performing arts. Learn how you can play a part at ableensemble.com
FEATURED INTERVIEWS:
Colleen Altman - Actor & Creative Associate
Shannon Diegel - Facilitator & Program Advisory Council Member
Erin Harvey - Actor & Program Advisory Council Member
Anna Luzadder - Actor
Kate McDuffie - Facilitator & Program Advisory Council Member
Katie Yohe - Founder and Executive Artistic Director
MORE ABOUT A.B.L.E.
A.B.L.E. - Artists Breaking Limits & Expectations is a Chicago-based nonprofit that provides performing arts opportunities for individuals with I/DD like Down syndrome, autism, and cerebral palsy. A.B.L.E.'s ensembles have produced more than 30 projects for the stage and screen, ranging from original work devised by the group, to Shakespearean classics, to award-winning feature films, and innovative Zoom projects including Romeo & Juliet Remix. A.B.L.E. also shares our unique approach for creative arts programming through outreach workshops and residences with schools, community centers, and other organizations that serve people with disabilities, as well as disability awareness and inclusion training for businesses. By placing people with disabilities in the spotlight, A.B.L.E.’s work strives to shift societal preconceptions, and build more inclusive, empathetic communities.
Video by Just Stories Chicago
Clips from The Curse of the Tempest Jewel, The Spy Who Knew Me, Romeo & Juliet Remix, and Into the Underworld edited by Brock Alter and Andrew McNally, courtesy of A.B.L.E.