“Whole New World” for Philadelphia Area Actors With Physical Disabilities

Acting Without Boundaries (AWB), a year round theatre workshop for children, teens and young adults with disabilities begun by an inspirational woman who is physically disabled herself, is celebrating its 5th anniversary with a gala awards dinner to be held on September 11th, 2008 followed by a musical production of Disney’s “Aladdin”Copyright on Sunday, September 14th at the Bluett Theatre on the campus of Saint Joseph’s University.

In celebration of the 5th anniversary of AWB providing theatre programs for young people with physical disabilities, three prominent Philadelphia area women will be honored for their commitment to the physically disabled at the awards dinner to be held Sept. 11th at Philadelphia Marriott West, in Conshohocken, PA. Honorees include top news anchor Lisa Thomas-Laury, of Philadelphia’s WPVI-6 ABC, who will be recognized for her determination in overcoming personal health struggles to become a passionate advocate for the disabled, Rebecca Bradbeer of Berwyn, PA, a crucial resource to AWB for her experience with cerebral palsy, and Pamela Grossman of Bryn Mawr, PA, President of the Lower Merion Committee for Special Education and an advocate for students with special needs. “These are three extraordinary women who have made a real difference in the lives of those with disabilities,” said Christine Rouse, founder and Executive Director of AWB. “We are thrilled to honor them as we celebrate this significant milestone.”

Scott Palmer, former colleague of Lisa Thomas-Laury at WPVI-6ABC and currently with the Philadelphia Phillies, will be the Master of Ceremonies at the Awards Dinner.

Over the last 5 years, Christine Rouse has set out to offer a platform for fellow physically disabled young people to shine. Founded by Christine in 2004, AWB allows members the opportunity to pursue their love of acting and performing, while building vital self confidence and the development of lifelong friendships. Christine’s mantra — “What makes us different makes us beautiful” — is believed when watching the delighted actors perform, and appreciative parents have found a whole new world within the spotlight on their children’s abilities.

“At AWB, Briana now knows what it feels like to be one of the gang. She is loved, she is equal, and she is ecstatic to perform,” explains Elena White, Briana’s mother and an AWB Board Member. “We’re so grateful to Christine. She wanted to give ‘her kids’ something that wasn’t there when she was growing up.” Fellow parent Dr. Michele Kirkland echoes this gratitude and daughter Chloe’s enthusiasm: “It is a celebration of successful lives despite disabilities. This program has allowed Chloe to gain confidence in who she is — not dwell on who she cannot be… that is a gift that only AWB could give.”

Each year, creative director Neill Hartley and a professional choreographer lead intensive monthly acting workshops that culminate in a highly anticipated year end theatrical production. A great amount of planning and preparation by the creative professionals and actors is evident in the skilled performances. But as AWB board member Lisa Goldschmidt points out, it is the spirit and joy of each performer that stands out. “Their smiles are contagious and stay with the audience long after the conclusion of a performance. For me, it doesn’t get any more inspirational than that!”

AWB’s 5th Anniversary Production of “Aladdin” will be held on Sunday, Sept. 14th at 6:00 pm in the Bluett Theatre on the campus of Saint Joseph’s University. But before the performance, people in the Philadelphia area will gather at the awards dinner Sept. 11th to celebrate 5 years of discovering the gifts of physically disabled actors and honor those who have inspired Christine and the families of AWB.

About Acting Without Boundaries

Founded in 2004 by Christine Rouse, Acting Without Boundaries (http://www.actingwithoutboundaries.org ) is a unique theatre program for children, teenagers, and young adults with physical disabilities. The goal of AWB is to provide young people from the disabled community with the opportunity to pursue their love of acting and performing, while at the same time fostering an enhanced belief in themselves and their abilities.

SOURCE: Acting Without Boundaries