DisAbility Project


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We have performed for over 70,000 people, received numerous awards and international recognition as one of the oldest and few projects of its kind in the country. (more...) Biographies Tom Allen (Performer) Tom is a native New Yorker. In 1980, he received his Master's degree in Fine Arts from the University of North Carolina. Since then, he has supported himself by the sale of his paintings, and by tutoring math and accounting. Tom has recently exhibited and sold his work at the St. Louis Artists' Guild. He has been a member of the DisAbility Project for over five years. His love of acting comes only second to his love for painting. As a result of brain tumors, Tom has epilepsy and is blind in one eye. He says it doesn't stop him from painting or living to his fullest. Justin Ivan Brown (Performer) Justin is a recent addition to St. Louis and the DisAbility Project. Most recently, Justin has appeared in Brooklyn Boy with The New Jewish Theatre, Fugitive Songs with Echo Theatre Company, and Into the Woods with Stray Dog Theatre. He is a graduate of Ball State University's Theatre and Dance Department and has been working in theatre for the last 13 years. He is thankful for this amazing opportunity with the DisAbility Project to work with such fantastic and inspiring actors. Lorrie Bielicke (Performer) Lorrie worked in special education for 22 years. For 15 of those years, she helped plan programs for kids with special needs. Then, in November of 1997, she became professionally enriched when diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Her great uncle had MS too. He was an inspiration and a great role model when Lorrie was diagnosed and she wishes that he was still here. She has realized that he showed her everything she needed to know. When her disability allows it, Lorrie volunteers helping children who struggle in school. Sara Burke (Choreographer) Sara is the owner and director of The City Studio Dance Center. A dancer, choreographer, and photographer, she has a degree in Theatre and Dance from Saint Louis University. She is a member of the Board of Directors of DanceBrazil, New York, and a Commissioner on the Regional Arts Commission (RAC). Sara has an extensive background in Dunham Technique and danced with Miss Katherine Dunham. She has studied and danced throughout the world, including Brazil and Spain. Alison Chancellor (Performer) Ali has been a cast member of the DisAbility Project for over six years. She has worked as a substitute teacher assistant for Special School District, but is currently looking for other full-time employment. She lives independently with her support dog, Sammy, and her childhood friend, Marci, who has also been a member of the DisAbility Project. Her disability is Cerebral Palsy. Kevin Chestnut (Assistant Administrative Director, Stage Manager) Kevin Chestnut has a B.A. in Psychology and Sociology from the University of Kansas. He does online academic proofreading and is a nonviolence activist who has worked for full community inclusion ever since arriving in St. Louis through VISTA in 1978. He founded the diverse Leader Support Groups program in the city and conducted its sessions for many years. He has done funding development for Missouri’s phone relay for the deaf and hearing-impaired, for the Lewis and Clark Institute’s summer youth programs, and for the St. Louis Association of Community Organizations, where he was a northside neighborhood organizer for 10 years. Kevin also served several years on the board of RAVEN to work against domestic violence. Fran Cohen (Co-Founder of The DisAbility Project, Consultant, Board Member) Fran received her B.S. from Washington University and her M.S from the University of Missouri. She was the Director of O.T. St. Louis University Hospital, Truman Restorative Center O.T., and Adult day Care American Red Cross. She has served as faculty for Washington. University’s Program in Occupational Therapy. She has acted as an Occupation Therapy consultant in nursing homes and private agencies. She has served on numerous boards over the years, and currently sits on the board of the Naral Foundation, That Uppity Theatre Company, and the Steering Committee of the Arthritis Foundation Silver Ball. Fran is key in the identification of issues and audiences pertinent to our work. David Eric (Performer) David was raised in St. Louis, moved to Jefferson County in the 6th grade, and attended Hillsboro High School. He says the only thing he made good grades at was Drama, so he studied acting at Webster University's Conservatory of Theatre Arts for two years before he became disabled with myelopathy, a condition that tightens his leg muscles so he can no longer walk. He has enjoyed becoming a real movie buff and is our newest cast member. Dianne Falk (Performer) Dianne Falk was Dianne White until she was "forced to listen to" and then swept off her feet by Stuart Falk's very funny standup routine from the DisAbility Project called "Club Medicine". They got married and she got caught up in his love of the DP and joined the project. She is a graduate of Webster University with a BA in Media Communications and an emphasis in Video and Film. She is on her second marriage. Stuart is on his third so Dianne is the lucky number 3. Both Stu and Dianne both have Multiple Sclerosis. Stuart Falk (Performer) Stuart is a native New Yorker (New Yorka) who graduated Northeastern University Boston with a degree in Philosophy. He came to St. Louis to study Chiropractic at Logan College. His Multiple Sclerosis prevented his getting that degree. After working for a disability organization and a disability rights action group, he joined the DisAbility Project in 1998. Stuart loves audiences. The project has been a family for him and he loves rehearsals as much loves performances. Stuart can’t wait to see where the project will take all its members next. Stuart is also a member of the St. Louis Ethical Society. Lucy “Lockett” Grondahl (Performer) Born in St. Louis, Lucy is a professional storyteller who has performed from Florida to California, and several times at the Governor’s Mansion in Jefferson City. She writes many of her own stories and has an entry in the anthology "Blindness Isn’t Black", which is entitled “The Chicken Lickin’ Dog.” Lucy joined the DisAbility Project in December 2009. She has been in a wheelchair for ten years due to arthritis. Lucy’s life philosophy is, “Life can’t always be easy, but it can always be fun!” Ana Jennings (Performer) Ana has worked full time in the field of rehabilitation and disability rights for more than 15 years. She has a Master's degree in Education, with an emphasis in Vocational Rehabilitation. Ana has been happily married for over 10 years and lives with her husband in their own home in Kirkwood, MO. She likes trying out different cultural cuisines and her pet peeve is rude people. Ana has a spinal cord injury. Bryan Jones (Performer) Bryan was born with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome which is a genetic disorder of the connective tissues in the arms and legs. He can’t support weight above 30 lbs. Bryan was first bit by the theater bug when he was in a high school play called Rags. During his senior year Bryan participated in a career training program at the zoo with Tiffany Harris, who was then a member of the DisAbility Project. She suggested that he join and he has been a part of it ever since. That was in 2003. Margaret Jorgensen (Performer) One of the DisAbility Project's newest members, Margaret Jorgensen joined the group in September of 2007. A native Californian, Margaret lives in Ste. Genevieve, where she is a news writer and features editor for the Ste. Genevieve Herald, a weekly newspaper. She also works at Ste. Genevieve Industries, a sheltered workshop. She has been involved in theatre and forensics work, starting as a member of Ozark High School's competitive speech team. While working for the Centralia (Mo) Fireside Guard newspaper in the 90s, Margaret and a group of residents created Centralia Community Theater. The group put on several productions where Jorgensen worked as an assistant director, actress and stage manager. A combination of injury and arthritis reduced Margaret's mobility at age 39, limiting her participation in traditional theatre programs. "Theatre and performance will always be a part of my life. I'm fortunate and blessed to find the DisAbility Project and meet the talented and unique people who are a part of it. I hope to be a member for many years to come and blend what talents I have into the group," she said. Besides theatre, Margaret loves sports (baseball, football and college basketball), cats, doing counted cross stitch (when she has the patience and time) and watching courtroom shows (especially Judge Judy). Jessica Laney (Artistic Associate) Jessica Laney is the Co-Founder and Co-Artistic Director of SLIGHTLYaskew Art Collective based out of NYC and holds a BFA from New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts in theatre. Productions include Death of the Last Black Man in the Whole Entire World by Suzan-Lori Parks (NYU) Troilus and Cressida by William Shakespeare (SLIGHTLYaskew) Henry VIII by William Shakespeare (Royal Academy of the Dramatic Arts, London). She was also featured in the music video "Esmerelda" by hip-hop artist Speech. Jessica has taught Augusto Boal technique at Yale University, deconstruction and Shakespeare analysis at Rocky River Community Theater in Cleveland and is teaching an Oral History and Poetry in Performance weekend workshop in the inner-city of Pittsburgh in late September, 2007. Joan Lipkin (Artistic Director) Joan Lipkin is the Founder and Producing Artistic Director of That Uppity Theatre Company in St. Louis, Missouri. Her company founded the nationally acclaimed Alternate Currents/Direct Currents Series, The DisAbility Project, Diverse Works and the Louies. A strong proponent of collaboration, she also co-founded Women CenterStage! with the Center of Contemporary Arts, the Nadadada Festival at The Forum for Contemporary Art, Democracy on Stage with the American Civil Liberties Union of Eastern Missouri, and the Mid-Sized Arts Cooperative. Joan specializes in creating works with socially relevant themes and underserved populations. Her company has received numerous commissions from various organizations. She has worked extensively with people with disabilities, women with cancer, GLBTQ youth and adults, people with early stage dementia and Alzheimer’s and at risk youth. A playwright, director, activist, educator, and social critic, her award-winning work has been published and produced throughout the United States, Canada, Great Britain, Ireland, Europe, Australia, and Asia. She has been featured on network television, National Public Radio, the BBC and the Associated Press and in a number of theatrical journals. Aarya Sara Locker (Associate Director) Aarya Sara Locker is a former Cirque du Soleil clown, a vegetarian and a yoga instructor. As a career actress, she has appeared in dozens of shows in numerous cities across the globe and holds a B.A. in acting from Washington University. Aarya had the grace to become a part of Theatre Of Inclusion, an Indianapolis-based inclusive theatre group and from that work launched herself into the experiences of working with a wonderful autistic boy and with an incredible blind actress. These encounters led Aarya to perceive the world differently and to seek out projects that include individuals with different abilities. Aarya loves a grand adventure! Felicia Scott (Vocal Coach) A native St. Louisan, Felicia Scott (AKA "Scotti") has been part the local arts scene for years. Majoring in music at Fontbonne University (voice, education, and music-business), she has been recognized for her vocal talents in classical, jazz/blues, and gospel music as well as her leadership in the arts community, beginning with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and the recording arts. Scotti became a household name and recognized voice-over talent from her music segment on the popular "Lavender Limelight" community radio show during the late 90s and her jazz show on local radio stations. She is also well-known for her work as Executive Director and DJ of Wired Women, Inc., a production company that supported the St. Louis women’s community for over 20 years by producing concert events and hosting women's dances across the St. Louis metropolitan area. Currently, she serves as a volunteer Chaplain and works professionally as a human resources consultant. Emma Perry (Performer) Emma has always sung in choirs in church and she used to sing, as part of the choir, in school plays. In addition to her work with the DisAbility Project, Emma volunteers at the Humane Society and has started a Bible fellowship at her nursing home. She is also active in a weekly advocacy meeting at Paraquad. In addition, Emma helps to teach 4th, 5th and 6th grade Sunday school classes. For Emma, being a part of the DisAbility Project offers her the opportunity to connect with other people with disabilities. J.T. Ricroft (Choreographer) J.T. has performed, directed and choreographed throughout the U.S. and the Caribbean. His work includes a national tour of "A Christmas Carol," vocals on Carmen's "Revival in the Land," Opryland USA, Busch Gardens, various cruise ships, music videos, and industrials. In St. Louis, he has worked with New Line Theatre, Kirkwood Theatre, Spotlight Theatre, the Robert E. Lee, Union Station, and the DisAbility Project and the Louies. He has won several Arts for Life awards for his directing and choreography. J.T. is on staff at Leaping Lizard's Performing Arts Studio for dance and acting instruction. He is excited to work again with Joan, the DP staff and performers on such great projects as "Tom Sawyer"! Reid Williams (Performer) Reid has been a cast member of the DisAbility Project since March 2005, and loves it. He volunteers once a week at the St. Louis Society answering phones, but is currently looking for part-time work. He shares a condo in Kirkwood with his roommate, Titus. His disability is Spina Bifida. What we are doing... Since 1996, That Uppity Theatre Company has focused on developing projects that bring together amateur performers with professional artists to create innovative material based on lived experience. In 1995, theatre artist Joan Lipkin and occupational therapist Fran Cohen co-founded the DisAbility Project. Comprised of people with and without disabilities to model inclusion, the project creates and tours original material about the culture of disability. We have performed for over 70,000 people, received numerous awards and international recognition as one of the oldest and few projects of its kind in the country. We rehearse most Thursdays in space donated by the Paraquad independent living center and by Central Reform Congregation, both in the Central West End of the city of St. Louis. Most rehearsals are open to the public. Our season runs September through July, with the majority of our performances taking place throughout Missouri and Illinois. People with disabilities are typically absent from representation and participation in our cultural landscape. According to the 2000 Missouri Census, an estimated 17% of the population in the state experiences some form of disability, whether it is sensory, cognitive, or mobility related. With over 55 million people with disabilities in the United States, it is the largest and most financially challenged population in the country. Now in its 14th season, the DisAbility Project brings awareness and sensitivity to issues in the disability community through a combination of art and advocacy that tours to a variety of audiences. The project presents at educational institutions, conferences, special events, festivals, religious and civic groups, and corporations. Our group is comprised of people with and without disabilities who are diverse in age, race, ethnicity, class, occupation, education, religion, sexual orientation, physical ability, and performance experience. Some of the challenges facing participants include alcoholism, amputation, asthma, bipolar disorder, blindness, brain injury, cancer, cerebral palsy, cognitive delay, depression, Down syndrome, epilepsy, HIV/AIDS, multiple sclerosis, polio, spina bifida, spinal cord injury, and stroke. Ensemble members engage in conversation, writing, sound, movement and theatrical exercises to create educational and entertaining performance pieces on the culture of disability. Many people with disabilities are finding both a sense of community and an outlet for their talents in the project, while our artists without disabilities have had their worldview expanded. In recognition of our groundbreaking work, we have received numerous awards including the Governor’s Council on Disability Community Enhancement, Focus What's Right with the Region for Improving Racial Equality and Social Justice, John van Voris, Human Rights Campaign Organizational Equality Award, and Arts for Life Special Recognition among others. Ensemble's Thoughts For me, the DP is a group of friends getting together for laughs and to create art--and by the way we also promote advocacy for the disabled and create awareness and education for those not familiar with the culture of disability or those who may be disabled. The DP offers something that no other group offers unconditional acceptance. Being with my pals in the group uplifts me, even when I'm having the worst of days. We laugh, we cry, we create awareness. I volunteered with the DP because of my love of theater...I stay with the group because of my love for what we do, who we are and what we stand for. Melissa Humbarger, Member Originally, it meant just an opportunity to create some theater with a woman who was nationally known in performance art circles. I wasn't necessarily attracted to or repulsed by the subject matter of the theater we would be creating, just interested in getting some acting experience. Of course, it has come to mean much more to me. It has raised my consciousness in a way that I was not aware needed raising. It has helped me to lose my fear of disability. It has made me realize that we can handle whatever God has given us. It's taught me that we can not only survive calamity but thrive as well. I hope it's made me a more sympathetic and empathetic human being. And it's given me lots of theater acting and writing experience! Rich Scharf, Member Being a member of the DisAbility Project changed my life. It has offered me the opportunity for self-expression; a creative forum in which to have my message heard. Performing tickles my sense of humor, and sparks my joy in being before an audience. Also, group members fill me socially with safety, friendship and love. Stuart Falk, Member The Disability Project has given me a chance to let down my defenses with in the safety of accepting and supportive friends. Our performances give me a chance to express myself with out having to struggle to find the right words. I look forward to our meetings and our performances. The Disability Project is helping me to let go of my fears and open up to others. It brings much joy into my life and has given me friends with whom I can be myself. I look forward to all our gigs. I get a lot of joy out of our performances. Performing gives me a chance to express myself without struggling to find the right words. Thank you for the opportunities you've given me to do this. Tom Allen, Member The Disability Project blows me away! I'm so honored to be able to work with such talented, creative and loving human beings. As I've said at the closing of many shows, the project is in essence like a support group for me. Yet, instead of complaining about our individual woes and challenges, we create art. Through this art we are able to inform, inspire, enrich and enlighten. I know that in the six months I've been with the Project, I've grown tremendously in spirit and knowledge. Tommy Smith, Member Working with The Disability Project gives me the opportunity to flesh out ideas that deal with poetic physical metaphors. It's a chance to sharpen my skills as a teacher and director, teaches me valuable lessons in choosing words carefully and allows me to share my creativity with a very receptive group of performers. Karen Werner, Choreographer Four years ago, I joined The DisAbility Project. Since I became a member of the ensemble, I’ve developed a great deal more self-respect with the knowledge that I’m making a difference in how people look at disability. My own perspective on disability has also changed. I used to feel very self-conscious about my disability. Now, I find myself motivated to find new ways to adapt. The DisAbility Project is a great support system. I’ve made new friendships, and feel far less isolated than I used to. Acting on stage has helped me improve my speech, too. Thea de Luna, Member It has been a wonderful experience working with the DisAbility Project as a choreographer. In the past, I have worked exclusively with able bodied, usually trained dancers. Working with this group has allowed me to explore completely new movement vocabularies. Besides, what a terrific group of people they are. The DP always leaves me inspired. F. Reed Brown, Choreographer When I was 19 years old, my mother convinced me to get my eyes examined. I had been complaining about not being able to see road signs at night or recognize faces from a distance. I thought, "my eyes may not be perfect, but I'm functioning just fine". But, I went anyway. They switched these lenses back and forth over each eye while I told them which one looked best. Then they made me a pair of glasses and brought them out to me. Miraculous! I put them on and looked out into the mall. Signs had individual letters on them, people's faces were up close, and everything had definition!! This vivid world had always existed, but I was blind to it. I didn't know what I was missing. Like new lenses, my involvement with DP has given me an invaluable outlook on the world as it truly exists for a large population of people. Shouldn't we strive to know what this earthly experience is like for all people? By doing so, we expand our understanding and our very souls. Wendy Weigh, Member My biggest accomplishment so far has been my work with That Uppity Theatre Company and The DisAbility Project, under the leadership of Joan Lipkin. Working with the ensemble has fostered my creativity and given me opportunities that I never would have had otherwise. And I have made life-long friends. People whom I think of as family. Last year, when times were tough for the group due to several illnesses and absences, I had the chance to understudy another woman with a disability who has been a great inspiration to me. She became a quadriplegic after a car accident. She has a funny, moving piece about her dating experiences before and after the accident, and how she found the love of her life. I performed this piece for students at Washington University during a performance on “Able-ism.” I also performed it in theatre class, and got an A. Before working with the Project, I wouldn’t have imagined performing in front of an audience. The DisAbility Project has given me confidence as a young actor and in every area of my life. Alison Chancellor, Member As a member of The DisAbility Project ensemble, I’ve made new friends, visited new places, and discovered talents I didn’t know I had. Being in the DP gives me confidence, and motivates me to explore my capabilities. Drew Sughero, Member [W]orking with The DisAbility Project, I have finally found an outlet for my creativity. It’s given me more than just a chance to perform again on stage. It’s given me comradeship, confidence, and hope. Now I know, as far as my ambition is concerned, the sky’s the limit. Love, understanding, and compassion are unique to the DisAbility Project. The DisAbility Project is family to me. Laroy Smith, Member I have watched members of the group gain confidence, poise, self assurance, the ability to work as a team member. I have watched people become less reticent, more willing to share themselves and their feelings. Their ability to perform for large audiences and interact with them has enabled them to interact socially in other situations. Bonding in the DP ensemble, I think, can help in forming relationships with other people. Learning lines and rehearsing vignettes has helped those with cognitive problems, and with focusing. As an Occupational Therapist I am committed to helping people with disabilities reach their full potential and be part of the mainstream of life. The DP, in a natural, uncontrived way, helps the participants learn to take risks and experiment more. It helps them feel good about themselves because they are doing something constructive to help change peoples' perceptions about disability. As an Occupational Therapist, involved in the DisAbility Project since its inception, I have always been profoundly interested in the use of meaningful activities (occupation), to engage and motivate people with disabilities to reach their full potential. I have observed the group in the process of performing gain confidence, poise, self assurance, and the ability to work as a team member. Participants have become less reticent, more willing to share themselves and their feelings. Performing for and interacting with large audiences has enabled them to more easily interact socially in other situations. The bonding that has occurred with the DP ensemble has helped members to form relationships with others. Learning lines and rehearsing vignettes has helped those with cognitive and focusing problems. The DisAbility project is a powerful tool for enriching the lives of the participants and all disabled people as well as changing societal perceptions about disability. Fran Cohen, BS, MS. Retired faculty, Washington University in St. Louis, Program in Occupational Therapy. Colleague and co-founder The DisAbility Project has enabled me to do what I love; performing. My younger years were filled with live theater experiences. An auto accident in 1990 put me on wheels. I rolled into my first rehearsal with the Project and felt right at home. Katie Bannister, Member Where have we performed? Conferences and Fairs American Association of Spinal Cord Injury Psychologists and Social Workers Assistive Technology Consumer Fair Association of Travel Instruction Diversity Awareness Partnership, "Give Respect-Get Respect" program Fair Housing (Equal Housing Opportunity Council) Gateway to Diversity (Greater St. Louis Federal Executive Board) International Parish Nurses International Society for Disability Studies Missouri Business Leadership Network Missouri State Convention of Student Council Associations National Association of Dual Diagnoses National Benevolent Association 7th Annual HUD Conference Parent-to-Parent St. Louis Art Fair St. Louis Dance Festival Showcase United Church of Christ University of Missouri-Kansas City Institute of Human Development’s AmeriCorps Missouri Churches and Temples Central Reform Congregation Christ Church Cathedral Epiphany United Church of Christ Roman Catholic Archdiocese of St. Louis Shaare Emeth Union Avenue Christian Church United Hebrew Congregation Elementary, Middle, and High Schools Affton High School Athena Elementary School Avery Elementary School Cathedral Basilica School Central Institute for the Deaf Craig Elementary School Crossroads College Preparatory Fanning Middle School Ford Elementary School Gateway Middle School Glenridge Elementary School Gotsch School Hicroft Ridge Elementary School Highland Elementary School Kellison Elementary King of Glory Lutheran School Ladue Horton Watkins High School Langston Middle School Marquette High School Missouri Fine Arts Academy Missouri Scholars Academy Nerinx High School New City School (elementary) North Glendale Elementary School Parkway Central High School Robinson Elementary School Roosevelt High School Rose Acres Elementary School Rossman School St. Joseph Institute for the Deaf St. Michael's School (elementary) Stanton Elementary Ursuline Academy Visitation Academy Westchester Elementary School Whitfield School Wohlwend Elementary School Colleges and Universities Maryville University Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville St. Louis College of Pharmacy St. Louis Community College at Florissant Valley St. Louis Community College at Forest Park St. Louis Community College at Meramec St. Louis Community College at Wildwood St. Louis University University of Missouri – Columbia University of Missouri – St. Louis Washington University Webster University Additional Locations BJC HealthCare Big Bear Creek Golf Course Bi-State Development Agency Delta Center for Independent Living (St. Charles, MO) Edward Jones Company Food Outreach Girl Scout Council of Greater St. Louis Magic House Metro St. Louis Missouri Botanical Garden Missouri History Museum National Conference for Community & Justice Reuter’s Corporation St. Louis Art Museum St. Louis Symphony Orchestra On-Stage, Powell Symphony Hall St. Louis Zoo Schlafly Branch - St. Louis Public Library Services for Independent Living (Columbia, MO) United Access Veteran’s Administration Medical Center - John Cochran Division Rave Reviews Organizations The group’s theatrical presentation was perfect. Your personal participation was superb; the talent and human interest in the audience was magnificent. It was obvious to all attendees that you knew your subject and that you truly cared about your audience and the subject. In fact, I continue to receive compliments on the CEID program. I applaud your personal insight and professional assistance with this Federal Executive Board Program. Lisa M. Dean, Chief, Finance Management, FEB Chairperson, CEID, Defense Information System Agency Without exception, the attendees have said it was the highlight of the day! They loved the injection of humor into the pieces and appreciated being able to get the point, without feeling bad or guilty. Obviously, from the comments and questions, the audience was deeply moved. Good theatre evokes emotional responses, opens dialogue and discussion, and allows the audience to experience the lives of the characters. Your performance was very definitely “good”. I hope we can continue this learning experience at future Missouri Commission on Human Rights events. Again, thank you for your wonderful contribution to our conference. Sheryl E. Rose, Regional Manager, Missouri Commission on Human Rights All I can say is thank you. Thank you many times over. Please congratulate each of the performers on an absolutely gorgeous performance. Rebecca Hutton, President, Theater of Inclusion, Inc. I wanted to let you know the girls really enjoyed the show. The performance kept the girls’ attention and was very well done… I would definitely recommend the DisAbility Project to others and encourage other Girl Scout Troops to attend a show in the future. Rene Lucas, co-leader of Junior Girl Scout Troop 916 I was moved by the self-empowering work that your abled and disabled actors developed and performed. This work captures the best of theater. Theater has the power to entertain. It can help us remember, and it can help us escape, but, most importantly, theater has the potential to heal, change, and build community. In your performance, the audience is engaged in the present that is a shared moment. Your work offers the audience a way out of stereotyping, preconceived notions, and fearful responses. Because of this, I suggested to the Cathedral that we invite you and the Project to present your work. I wanted to share the experience of your collaborative work with the people with whom I worship and grow. We witnessed and participated in your performance together with the members of the St. Thomas Church of the Deaf congregation, a group that shares our space on Sundays. Your work helped to instill a new sensitivity in us for each other. As the Cathedral sets out to rehab the adjoining Bishop Tuttle Memorial Building and return it to its original purpose as an inner city community center, the members of your troupe helped raise our awareness about our limitations as an accessible and welcoming space. I have a dear friend disabled by seizures, a result of brain injury. He has recently returned to St. Louis for better care. Leaving his relative independence, he was feeling depressed and alienated. You invited him to a Saturday rehearsal, and your welcome into community has changed him. On behalf of Christ Church Cathedral, I wish you well in your future efforts. Bonnie Taylor, Member, Christ Church Cathedral Schools Your touring company was a HIT with the staff and students of Kirkwood High School! I must tell you also that our total student body has never received any group any more warmly than your troupe. They understood you. They were moved by what they saw and heard. When it was appropriate for our students to laugh, they laughed. When the mood called for serious consideration, they did that too. And at the close of both assemblies, the students and staff of Kirkwood High School gave the DisAbility Project performers the standing ovations you deserved. Bravo for your troupe! Thanks for giving us the chance to see and hear you. Best wishes in your attempt to reach every high school in Missouri. Our students and staff members need to see you. Franklin S. McCallie, Principal, Kirkwood High School KUDOS to all the performers for their excellent presentation of the DisAbility Project. You delighted the audience with your spirit and determination. We were also enriched by the thoughtful scenarios, the great singing and dancing, the rap, and the beautiful and positive closing words. THANK YOU so much for "making this play happen!” May you keep on performing for many more audiences and sharing this great work. Continued good luck to all of you! Laura DuPont, Principal, Glenridge Elementary School The troupe did such an outstanding job today. You enlightened and delighted all of us, children and adults, with your stories, skits, talent, etc.... Thank you so much for sharing your performance with us at Glenridge. We are all a lot richer because of it. Kudos to everyone, whether it be the performers, director, guest artists or the people who work in the office to manage all of the logistics. I have the deepest respect and admiration for the important work you do. Roz Dubinsky, Teacher, Glenridge Elementary School The performance yesterday was outstanding!! Tell your performers thanks! I talked to a number of students after the performance and they really enjoyed it. Marsha Demba, Teacher, Marquette High School A+! They (the performers) showed their ability to be a contributing part of our society. They showed life as 'a glass half-full, not half empty!' Best was their ability to relate to the fourth grade audience with fun and confidence. When can you come to our school? Harry Pickup, Kennard Classical Academy "It was excellent. I learned to see situations through the eyes of the performers. The best part of the performance was including the students in the production and your interaction with them. We are definitely looking forward to you coming to our school." Bonnie Riefer, Athena Elementary School Creative and moving. You realize it could be you. It makes you think how you would respond if it were you. Would hope you could be as gracious and as talented. Sheri Lyn Terry, Drama/Speech Teacher/Director I am writing to commend the DisAbility Project for its work with our fourth graders. The performance which your troupe did for our kids provided and excellent introduction for the month-long study of disabilities. The vignettes gave the students clear examples of situations faced by folks with a variety of disabilities. These “stories” helped the students to develop an appreciation for the frustrations, obstacles and successes that make life so different, yet similar. I know you made some modifications in the performance to fit the ages of our students; the results were definitely age-appropriate. In addition, the study guide was helpful to teachers and students. Finally, the opportunity for our students to speak with the troupe’s actors and actresses was also invaluable. Here again, the students could relate the actors’ and actresses’ experiences to their own lives. The conversations were wonderful! We are already looking forward to doing this again next year. Thanks for all the work you and your troupe put into this effort. Barbara James Thompson, Assistant Director, Family Support, New City School Thank you for the wonderful performance today! The children were captivated by your creative and entertaining expressions of very important topics. Please tell all of the performers that it touched the lives of students, teachers and parents. Thanks again, Amy Abramson, Parent, Rossman School Colleges/Universities I want to thank That Uppity Theatre Company for the wonderful performance you did for us during our ACCESS Award's Ceremony. The presentation was extremely informative and provided an educational experience for all in an enjoyable, entertaining way. The feedback that we received from students, faculty, staff, and members of the community was very positive. Everyone walked away from the experience with a better appreciation of daily events that may occur in a person with disabilities life. Linda Nissenbaum, M. A., Manager, ACCESS Office St. Louis Community College-Meramec, disAbility Support Services You touched my heart and my mind and so I can only assume that everyone in attendance was touched in some way. So I want to give you one final applause on your performance and say thank you. Thank you for thinking of Maryville University. Thank you for enlightening our community. And thank you for the work that you do everyday that brings ability issues to light. Danielle J. Carter, Multicultural Programs, Maryville University You taught me an invaluable lesson while making it entertaining and creative. I thought the performance was wonderful. I learned so much. I feel really speechless about my feelings. All I can say is, “Wow!” and “Well done!” Megan McCartney, Graduate Student, Maryville University I liked how it was open to bring up topics that may be sensitive subjects in other settings. It is important to address these issues. Cruz Martinez, Occupational Therapy Student, Maryville University To me, the Disability Project means family and friends. The DP provides a comfortable, nonjudgemental environment where I am not afraid to be myself. It allows me to have fun and act with a wonderful group of people who are honest and open. To me, the DP is a community. Rachel Sieber, Occupational therapy student, Washington University in St. Louis, School of Medicine Thank you so much for bringing your group to the Washington University Program in Occupational Therapy last month. My students were deeply moved by the entire program. I don’t think many of them had seen, or even thought about, many of the issues that your group brought forth — dancing in a wheelchair, sexuality, personal pain and jubilation from life — it truly opened their eyes. WE are very fortunate that you were able to bring the group to our Program, and hope that this can be an annual event. Next year I hope, if we are able to have a repeat performance, that Fran Cohen can be in attendance, as she has been a vital force in your program as well as ours. Thanks again for a wonderful program. Donna Whitehouse, MHA, OTR/L, Coordinator of Student Clinical and Professional Development, Washington University, School of Medicine, Program in Occupational Therapy Your project is wonderful. Every college or school needs to experience this opportunity to view and hear about personal experiences with disabilities. Your group is full of talent. Thanks for giving me the chance to experience this! Kate Ebert, Occupational Therapy Student Thank you so much for the wonderful production you provided at the Direct Support Professionals Conference of St. Charles County. You made the audience more aware of the importance of their roles, as Direct Support Professionals, play in the lives of people with disabilities. Keep up the wonderful work. The DisAbility Project is making an impact in the St. Louis area. I look forward to seeing you back at St. Charles County Community College in the near future. Sherrill Wayland, MS, Inclusion and Training Specialist, St. Charles County Community College Related Projects Inner Vision Ten Percent Working Tom Sawyer
That Uppity Theatre Company • 4466 West Pine Boulevard, Suite 13C • Saint Louis, MO 63108 Box Office: (314) 995-4600 • Office: (314) 534-1454 • MO Relay (TTY/TDD): 711 • Fax: (314) 534-6591 uppityco@att.net

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Since 1996, That Uppity Theatre Company has focused on developing projects that bring together amateur performers with professional artists to create innovative material based on lived experience. In 1995, theatre artist Joan Lipkin and occupational therapist Fran Cohen co-founded "the DisAbility Project." Comprised of people with and without disabilities to model inclusion, the project creates and tours original material about the culture of disability. We have performed for over 70,000 people, received numerous awards and international recognition as one of the oldest and few projects of its kind in the country. (more...)

Biographies

Tom Allen (Performer)
Tom is a native New Yorker. In 1980, he received his Master's degree in Fine Arts from the University of North Carolina. Since then, he has supported himself by the sale of his paintings, and by tutoring math and accounting. Tom has recently exhibited and sold his work at the St. Louis Artists' Guild.

He has been a member of the DisAbility Project for over five years. His love of acting comes only second to his love for painting. As a result of brain tumors, Tom has epilepsy and is blind in one eye. He says it doesn't stop him from painting or living to his fullest.

Justin Ivan Brown (Performer)
Justin is a recent addition to St. Louis and the DisAbility Project. Most recently, Justin has appeared in Brooklyn Boy with The New Jewish Theatre, Fugitive Songs with Echo Theatre Company, and Into the Woods with Stray Dog Theatre. He is a graduate of Ball State University's Theatre and Dance Department and has been working in theatre for the last 13 years. He is thankful for this amazing opportunity with the DisAbility Project to work with such fantastic and inspiring actors.

Lorrie Bielicke (Performer)
Lorrie worked in special education for 22 years. For 15 of those years, she helped plan programs for kids with special needs. Then, in November of 1997, she became professionally enriched when diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. Her great uncle had MS too. He was an inspiration and a great role model when Lorrie was diagnosed and she wishes that he was still here. She has realized that he showed her everything she needed to know. When her disability allows it, Lorrie volunteers helping children who struggle in school.

Sara Burke (Choreographer)
Sara is the owner and director of The City Studio Dance Center. A dancer, choreographer, and photographer, she has a degree in Theatre and Dance from Saint Louis University. She is a member of the Board of Directors of DanceBrazil, New York, and a Commissioner on the Regional Arts Commission (RAC). Sara has an extensive background in Dunham Technique and danced with Miss Katherine Dunham. She has studied and danced throughout the world, including Brazil and Spain.

Alison Chancellor (Performer)
Ali has been a cast member of the DisAbility Project for over six years. She has worked as a substitute teacher assistant for Special School District, but is currently looking for other full-time employment. She lives independently with her support dog, Sammy, and her childhood friend, Marci, who has also been a member of the DisAbility Project. Her disability is Cerebral Palsy.

Kevin Chestnut (Assistant Administrative Director, Stage Manager)
Kevin Chestnut has a B.A. in Psychology and Sociology from the University of Kansas. He does online academic proofreading and is a nonviolence activist who has worked for full community inclusion ever since arriving in St. Louis through VISTA in 1978. He founded the diverse Leader Support Groups program in the city and conducted its sessions for many years. He has done funding development for Missouri’s phone relay for the deaf and hearing-impaired, for the Lewis and Clark Institute’s summer youth programs, and for the St. Louis Association of Community Organizations, where he was a northside neighborhood organizer for 10 years. Kevin also served several years on the board of RAVEN to work against domestic violence.

Fran Cohen (Co-Founder of The DisAbility Project, Consultant, Board Member)
Fran received her B.S. from Washington University and her M.S from the University of Missouri. She was the Director of O.T. St. Louis University Hospital, Truman Restorative Center O.T., and Adult day Care American Red Cross. She has served as faculty for Washington. University’s Program in Occupational Therapy. She has acted as an Occupation Therapy consultant in nursing homes and private agencies. She has served on numerous boards over the years, and currently sits on the board of the Naral Foundation, That Uppity Theatre Company, and the Steering Committee of the Arthritis Foundation Silver Ball. Fran is key in the identification of issues and audiences pertinent to our work.

David Eric (Performer)
David was raised in St. Louis, moved to Jefferson County in the 6th grade, and attended Hillsboro High School. He says the only thing he made good grades at was Drama, so he studied acting at Webster University's Conservatory of Theatre Arts for two years before he became disabled with myelopathy, a condition that tightens his leg muscles so he can no longer walk. He has enjoyed becoming a real movie buff and is our newest cast member.

Dianne Falk (Performer)
Dianne Falk was Dianne White until she was "forced to listen to" and then swept off her feet by Stuart Falk's very funny standup routine from the DisAbility Project called "Club Medicine". They got married and she got caught up in his love of the DP and joined the project. She is a graduate of Webster University with a BA in Media Communications and an emphasis in Video and Film. She is on her second marriage. Stuart is on his third so Dianne is the lucky number 3. Both Stu and Dianne both have Multiple Sclerosis.

Stuart Falk (Performer)
Stuart is a native New Yorker (New Yorka) who graduated Northeastern University Boston with a degree in Philosophy. He came to St. Louis to study Chiropractic at Logan College. His Multiple Sclerosis prevented his getting that degree. After working for a disability organization and a disability rights action group, he joined the DisAbility Project in 1998. Stuart loves audiences. The project has been a family for him and he loves rehearsals as much loves performances. Stuart can’t wait to see where the project will take all its members next. Stuart is also a member of the St. Louis Ethical Society.

Lucy “Lockett” Grondahl (Performer)
Born in St. Louis, Lucy is a professional storyteller who has performed from Florida to California, and several times at the Governor’s Mansion in Jefferson City. She writes many of her own stories and has an entry in the anthology "Blindness Isn’t Black", which is entitled “The Chicken Lickin’ Dog.” Lucy joined the DisAbility Project in December 2009. She has been in a wheelchair for ten years due to arthritis. Lucy’s life philosophy is, “Life can’t always be easy, but it can always be fun!”

Ana Jennings (Performer)
Ana has worked full time in the field of rehabilitation and disability rights for more than 15 years. She has a Master's degree in Education, with an emphasis in Vocational Rehabilitation. Ana has been happily married for over 10 years and lives with her husband in their own home in Kirkwood, MO. She likes trying out different cultural cuisines and her pet peeve is rude people. Ana has a spinal cord injury.

Bryan Jones (Performer)
Bryan was born with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome which is a genetic disorder of the connective tissues in the arms and legs. He can’t support weight above 30 lbs. Bryan was first bit by the theater bug when he was in a high school play called Rags. During his senior year Bryan participated in a career training program at the zoo with Tiffany Harris, who was then a member of the DisAbility Project. She suggested that he join and he has been a part of it ever since. That was in 2003.

Margaret Jorgensen (Performer)
One of the DisAbility Project's newest members, Margaret Jorgensen joined the group in September of 2007. A native Californian, Margaret lives in Ste. Genevieve, where she is a news writer and features editor for the Ste. Genevieve Herald, a weekly newspaper. She also works at Ste. Genevieve Industries, a sheltered workshop. She has been involved in theatre and forensics work, starting as a member of Ozark High School's competitive speech team. While working for the Centralia (Mo) Fireside Guard newspaper in the 90s, Margaret and a group of residents created Centralia Community Theater. The group put on several productions where Jorgensen worked as an assistant director, actress and stage manager. A combination of injury and arthritis reduced Margaret's mobility at age 39, limiting her participation in traditional theatre programs. "Theatre and performance will always be a part of my life. I'm fortunate and blessed to find the DisAbility Project and meet the talented and unique people who are a part of it. I hope to be a member for many years to come and blend what talents I have into the group," she said. Besides theatre, Margaret loves sports (baseball, football and college basketball), cats, doing counted cross stitch (when she has the patience and time) and watching courtroom shows (especially Judge Judy).

Jessica Laney (Artistic Associate)
Jessica Laney is the Co-Founder and Co-Artistic Director of SLIGHTLYaskew Art Collective based out of NYC and holds a BFA from New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts in theatre. Productions include Death of the Last Black Man in the Whole Entire World by Suzan-Lori Parks (NYU) Troilus and Cressida by William Shakespeare (SLIGHTLYaskew) Henry VIII by William Shakespeare (Royal Academy of the Dramatic Arts, London). She was also featured in the music video "Esmerelda" by hip-hop artist Speech. Jessica has taught Augusto Boal technique at Yale University, deconstruction and Shakespeare analysis at Rocky River Community Theater in Cleveland and is teaching an Oral History and Poetry in Performance weekend workshop in the inner-city of Pittsburgh in late September, 2007.

Joan Lipkin (Artistic Director)
Joan Lipkin is the Founder and Producing Artistic Director of That Uppity Theatre Company in St. Louis, Missouri. Her company founded the nationally acclaimed Alternate Currents/Direct Currents Series, The DisAbility Project, Diverse Works and the Louies. A strong proponent of collaboration, she also co-founded Women CenterStage! with the Center of Contemporary Arts, the Nadadada Festival at The Forum for Contemporary Art, Democracy on Stage with the American Civil Liberties Union of Eastern Missouri, and the Mid-Sized Arts Cooperative.

Joan specializes in creating works with socially relevant themes and underserved populations. Her company has received numerous commissions from various organizations. She has worked extensively with people with disabilities, women with cancer, GLBTQ youth and adults, people with early stage dementia and Alzheimer’s and at risk youth.

A playwright, director, activist, educator, and social critic, her award-winning work has been published and produced throughout the United States, Canada, Great Britain, Ireland, Europe, Australia, and Asia. She has been featured on network television, National Public Radio, the BBC and the Associated Press and in a number of theatrical journals.

Aarya Sara Locker (Associate Director)
Aarya Sara Locker is a former Cirque du Soleil clown, a vegetarian and a yoga instructor. As a career actress, she has appeared in dozens of shows in numerous cities across the globe and holds a B.A. in acting from Washington University. Aarya had the grace to become a part of Theatre Of Inclusion, an Indianapolis-based inclusive theatre group and from that work launched herself into the experiences of working with a wonderful autistic boy and with an incredible blind actress. These encounters led Aarya to perceive the world differently and to seek out projects that include individuals with different abilities. Aarya loves a grand adventure!

Felicia Scott (Vocal Coach)
A native St. Louisan, Felicia Scott (AKA "Scotti") has been part the local arts scene for years. Majoring in music at Fontbonne University (voice, education, and music-business), she has been recognized for her vocal talents in classical, jazz/blues, and gospel music as well as her leadership in the arts community, beginning with the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra and the recording arts. Scotti became a household name and recognized voice-over talent from her music segment on the popular "Lavender Limelight" community radio show during the late 90s and her jazz show on local radio stations. She is also well-known for her work as Executive Director and DJ of Wired Women, Inc., a production company that supported the St. Louis women’s community for over 20 years by producing concert events and hosting women's dances across the St. Louis metropolitan area. Currently, she serves as a volunteer Chaplain and works professionally as a human resources consultant.

Emma Perry (Performer)
Emma has always sung in choirs in church and she used to sing, as part of the choir, in school plays. In addition to her work with the DisAbility Project, Emma volunteers at the Humane Society and has started a Bible fellowship at her nursing home. She is also active in a weekly advocacy meeting at Paraquad. In addition, Emma helps to teach 4th, 5th and 6th grade Sunday school classes. For Emma, being a part of the DisAbility Project offers her the opportunity to connect with other people with disabilities.

J.T. Ricroft (Choreographer)
J.T. has performed, directed and choreographed throughout the U.S. and the Caribbean. His work includes a national tour of "A Christmas Carol," vocals on Carmen's "Revival in the Land," Opryland USA, Busch Gardens, various cruise ships, music videos, and industrials. In St. Louis, he has worked with New Line Theatre, Kirkwood Theatre, Spotlight Theatre, the Robert E. Lee, Union Station, and the DisAbility Project and the Louies. He has won several Arts for Life awards for his directing and choreography. J.T. is on staff at Leaping Lizard's Performing Arts Studio for dance and acting instruction. He is excited to work again with Joan, the DP staff and performers on such great projects as "Tom Sawyer"!

Reid Williams (Performer)
Reid has been a cast member of the DisAbility Project since March 2005, and loves it. He volunteers once a week at the St. Louis Society answering phones, but is currently looking for part-time work. He shares a condo in Kirkwood with his roommate, Titus. His disability is Spina Bifida.

What we are doing...

Since 1996, That Uppity Theatre Company has focused on developing projects that bring together amateur performers with professional artists to create innovative material based on lived experience. In 1995, theatre artist Joan Lipkin and occupational therapist Fran Cohen co-founded the DisAbility Project. Comprised of people with and without disabilities to model inclusion, the project creates and tours original material about the culture of disability. We have performed for over 70,000 people, received numerous awards and international recognition as one of the oldest and few projects of its kind in the country.

We rehearse most Thursdays in space donated by the Paraquad independent living center and by Central Reform Congregation, both in the Central West End of the city of St. Louis. Most rehearsals are open to the public. Our season runs September through July, with the majority of our performances taking place throughout Missouri and Illinois.

People with disabilities are typically absent from representation and participation in our cultural landscape. According to the 2000 Missouri Census, an estimated 17% of the population in the state experiences some form of disability, whether it is sensory, cognitive, or mobility related. With over 55 million people with disabilities in the United States, it is the largest and most financially challenged population in the country.

Now in its 14th season, the DisAbility Project brings awareness and sensitivity to issues in the disability community through a combination of art and advocacy that tours to a variety of audiences. The project presents at educational institutions, conferences, special events, festivals, religious and civic groups, and corporations.

Our group is comprised of people with and without disabilities who are diverse in age, race, ethnicity, class, occupation, education, religion, sexual orientation, physical ability, and performance experience.

Some of the challenges facing participants include alcoholism, amputation, asthma, bipolar disorder, blindness, brain injury, cancer, cerebral palsy, cognitive delay, depression, Down syndrome, epilepsy, HIV/AIDS, multiple sclerosis, polio, spina bifida, spinal cord injury, and stroke.

Ensemble members engage in conversation, writing, sound, movement and theatrical exercises to create educational and entertaining performance pieces on the culture of disability. Many people with disabilities are finding both a sense of community and an outlet for their talents in the project, while our artists without disabilities have had their worldview expanded.

In recognition of our groundbreaking work, we have received numerous awards including the Governor’s Council on Disability Community Enhancement, Focus What's Right with the Region for Improving Racial Equality and Social Justice, John van Voris, Human Rights Campaign Organizational Equality Award, and Arts for Life Special Recognition among others.

Ensemble's Thoughts

For me, the DP is a group of friends getting together for laughs and to create art--and by the way we also promote advocacy for the disabled and create awareness and education for those not familiar with the culture of disability or those who may be disabled. The DP offers something that no other group offers unconditional acceptance. Being with my pals in the group uplifts me, even when I'm having the worst of days. We laugh, we cry, we create awareness. I volunteered with the DP because of my love of theater...I stay with the group because of my love for what we do, who we are and what we stand for.
Melissa Humbarger, Member

Originally, it meant just an opportunity to create some theater with a woman who was nationally known in performance art circles. I wasn't necessarily attracted to or repulsed by the subject matter of the theater we would be creating, just interested in getting some acting experience. Of course, it has come to mean much more to me. It has raised my consciousness in a way that I was not aware needed raising. It has helped me to lose my fear of disability. It has made me realize that we can handle whatever God has given us. It's taught me that we can not only survive calamity but thrive as well. I hope it's made me a more sympathetic and empathetic human being. And it's given me lots of theater acting and writing experience!
Rich Scharf, Member

Being a member of the DisAbility Project changed my life. It has offered me the opportunity for self-expression; a creative forum in which to have my message heard. Performing tickles my sense of humor, and sparks my joy in being before an audience. Also, group members fill me socially with safety, friendship and love.
Stuart Falk, Member

The Disability Project has given me a chance to let down my defenses with in the safety of accepting and supportive friends. Our performances give me a chance to express myself with out having to struggle to find the right words. I look forward to our meetings and our performances. The Disability Project is helping me to let go of my fears and open up to others. It brings much joy into my life and has given me friends with whom I can be myself.

I look forward to all our gigs. I get a lot of joy out of our performances. Performing gives me a chance to express myself without struggling to find the right words. Thank you for the opportunities you've given me to do this.
Tom Allen, Member

The Disability Project blows me away! I'm so honored to be able to work with such talented, creative and loving human beings. As I've said at the closing of many shows, the project is in essence like a support group for me. Yet, instead of complaining about our individual woes and challenges, we create art. Through this art we are able to inform, inspire, enrich and enlighten. I know that in the six months I've been with the Project, I've grown tremendously in spirit and knowledge.
Tommy Smith, Member

Working with The Disability Project gives me the opportunity to flesh out ideas that deal with poetic physical metaphors. It's a chance to sharpen my skills as a teacher and director, teaches me valuable lessons in choosing words carefully and allows me to share my creativity with a very receptive group of performers. Karen Werner, Choreographer

Four years ago, I joined The DisAbility Project. Since I became a member of the ensemble, I’ve developed a great deal more self-respect with the knowledge that I’m making a difference in how people look at disability. My own perspective on disability has also changed. I used to feel very self-conscious about my disability. Now, I find myself motivated to find new ways to adapt. The DisAbility Project is a great support system. I’ve made new friendships, and feel far less isolated than I used to. Acting on stage has helped me improve my speech, too.
Thea de Luna, Member

It has been a wonderful experience working with the DisAbility Project as a choreographer. In the past, I have worked exclusively with able bodied, usually trained dancers. Working with this group has allowed me to explore completely new movement vocabularies. Besides, what a terrific group of people they are. The DP always leaves me inspired.
F. Reed Brown, Choreographer

When I was 19 years old, my mother convinced me to get my eyes examined. I had been complaining about not being able to see road signs at night or recognize faces from a distance. I thought, "my eyes may not be perfect, but I'm functioning just fine". But, I went anyway. They switched these lenses back and forth over each eye while I told them which one looked best. Then they made me a pair of glasses and brought them out to me. Miraculous! I put them on and looked out into the mall. Signs had individual letters on them, people's faces were up close, and everything had definition!! This vivid world had always existed, but I was blind to it. I didn't know what I was missing.

Like new lenses, my involvement with DP has given me an invaluable outlook on the world as it truly exists for a large population of people. Shouldn't we strive to know what this earthly experience is like for all people? By doing so, we expand our understanding and our very souls.
Wendy Weigh, Member

My biggest accomplishment so far has been my work with That Uppity Theatre Company and The DisAbility Project, under the leadership of Joan Lipkin. Working with the ensemble has fostered my creativity and given me opportunities that I never would have had otherwise. And I have made life-long friends. People whom I think of as family. Last year, when times were tough for the group due to several illnesses and absences, I had the chance to understudy another woman with a disability who has been a great inspiration to me. She became a quadriplegic after a car accident. She has a funny, moving piece about her dating experiences before and after the accident, and how she found the love of her life. I performed this piece for students at Washington University during a performance on “Able-ism.” I also performed it in theatre class, and got an A. Before working with the Project, I wouldn’t have imagined performing in front of an audience. The DisAbility Project has given me confidence as a young actor and in every area of my life. Alison Chancellor, Member

As a member of The DisAbility Project ensemble, I’ve made new friends, visited new places, and discovered talents I didn’t know I had. Being in the DP gives me confidence, and motivates me to explore my capabilities.
Drew Sughero, Member

[W]orking with The DisAbility Project, I have finally found an outlet for my creativity. It’s given me more than just a chance to perform again on stage. It’s given me comradeship, confidence, and hope. Now I know, as far as my ambition is concerned, the sky’s the limit.

Love, understanding, and compassion are unique to the DisAbility Project. The DisAbility Project is family to me.
Laroy Smith, Member

I have watched members of the group gain confidence, poise, self assurance, the ability to work as a team member. I have watched people become less reticent, more willing to share themselves and their feelings. Their ability to perform for large audiences and interact with them has enabled them to interact socially in other situations. Bonding in the DP ensemble, I think, can help in forming relationships with other people. Learning lines and rehearsing vignettes has helped those with cognitive problems, and with focusing.

As an Occupational Therapist I am committed to helping people with disabilities reach their full potential and be part of the mainstream of life. The DP, in a natural, uncontrived way, helps the participants learn to take risks and experiment more. It helps them feel good about themselves because they are doing something constructive to help change peoples' perceptions about disability.

As an Occupational Therapist, involved in the DisAbility Project since its inception, I have always been profoundly interested in the use of meaningful activities (occupation), to engage and motivate people with disabilities to reach their full potential.

I have observed the group in the process of performing gain confidence, poise, self assurance, and the ability to work as a team member. Participants have become less reticent, more willing to share themselves and their feelings. Performing for and interacting with large audiences has enabled them to more easily interact socially in other situations. The bonding that has occurred with the DP ensemble has helped members to form relationships with others. Learning lines and rehearsing vignettes has helped those with cognitive and focusing problems.

The DisAbility project is a powerful tool for enriching the lives of the participants and all disabled people as well as changing societal perceptions about disability.
Fran Cohen, BS, MS. Retired faculty, Washington University in St. Louis, Program in Occupational Therapy. Colleague and co-founder

The DisAbility Project has enabled me to do what I love; performing. My younger years were filled with live theater experiences. An auto accident in 1990 put me on wheels. I rolled into my first rehearsal with the Project and felt right at home.
Katie Bannister, Member

Where have we performed?

Conferences and Fairs
American Association of Spinal Cord Injury Psychologists and Social Workers
Assistive Technology Consumer Fair
Association of Travel Instruction
Diversity Awareness Partnership, "Give Respect-Get Respect" program
Fair Housing (Equal Housing Opportunity Council)
Gateway to Diversity (Greater St. Louis Federal Executive Board)
International Parish Nurses
International Society for Disability Studies
Missouri Business Leadership Network
Missouri State Convention of Student Council Associations
National Association of Dual Diagnoses
National Benevolent Association
7th Annual HUD Conference
Parent-to-Parent
St. Louis Art Fair
St. Louis Dance Festival Showcase
United Church of Christ
University of Missouri-Kansas City
Institute of Human Development’s AmeriCorps Missouri

Churches and Temples
Central Reform Congregation
Christ Church Cathedral
Epiphany United Church of Christ
Roman Catholic Archdiocese of St. Louis
Shaare Emeth
Union Avenue Christian Church
United Hebrew Congregation

Elementary, Middle, and High Schools
Affton High School
Athena Elementary School
Avery Elementary School
Cathedral Basilica School
Central Institute for the Deaf
Craig Elementary School
Crossroads College Preparatory
Fanning Middle School
Ford Elementary School
Gateway Middle School
Glenridge Elementary School
Gotsch School
Hicroft Ridge Elementary School
Highland Elementary School
Kellison Elementary
King of Glory Lutheran School
Ladue Horton Watkins High School
Langston Middle School
Marquette High School
Missouri Fine Arts Academy
Missouri Scholars Academy
Nerinx High School
New City School (elementary)
North Glendale Elementary School
Parkway Central High School
Robinson Elementary School
Roosevelt High School
Rose Acres Elementary School
Rossman School
St. Joseph Institute for the Deaf
St. Michael's School (elementary)
Stanton Elementary
Ursuline Academy
Visitation Academy
Westchester Elementary School
Whitfield School
Wohlwend Elementary School

Colleges and Universities
Maryville University
Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville
St. Louis College of Pharmacy
St. Louis Community College at Florissant Valley
St. Louis Community College at Forest Park
St. Louis Community College at Meramec
St. Louis Community College at Wildwood
St. Louis University
University of Missouri – Columbia
University of Missouri – St. Louis
Washington University
Webster University

Additional Locations

BJC HealthCare
Big Bear Creek Golf Course
Bi-State Development Agency
Delta Center for Independent Living
(St. Charles, MO)
Edward Jones Company Food Outreach
Girl Scout Council of Greater St. Louis
Magic House
Metro St. Louis
Missouri Botanical Garden
Missouri History Museum
National Conference for Community & Justice
Reuter’s Corporation
St. Louis Art Museum
St. Louis Symphony Orchestra On-Stage, Powell Symphony Hall
St. Louis Zoo
Schlafly Branch - St. Louis Public Library
Services for Independent Living (Columbia, MO)
United Access
Veteran’s Administration Medical Center - John Cochran Division

Rave Reviews

Organizations

The group’s theatrical presentation was perfect. Your personal participation was superb; the talent and human interest in the audience was magnificent. It was obvious to all attendees that you knew your subject and that you truly cared about your audience and the subject. In fact, I continue to receive compliments on the CEID program.

I applaud your personal insight and professional assistance with this Federal Executive Board Program.
Lisa M. Dean, Chief, Finance Management, FEB Chairperson,
CEID, Defense Information System Agency

Without exception, the attendees have said it was the highlight of the day! They loved the injection of humor into the pieces and appreciated being able to get the point, without feeling bad or guilty. Obviously, from the comments and questions, the audience was deeply moved. Good theatre evokes emotional responses, opens dialogue and discussion, and allows the audience to experience the lives of the characters. Your performance was very definitely “good”. I hope we can continue this learning experience at future Missouri Commission on Human Rights events.

Again, thank you for your wonderful contribution to our conference.
Sheryl E. Rose, Regional Manager,
Missouri Commission on Human Rights

All I can say is thank you. Thank you many times over. Please congratulate each of the performers on an absolutely gorgeous performance.
Rebecca Hutton, President,
Theater of Inclusion, Inc.

I wanted to let you know the girls really enjoyed the show. The performance kept the girls’ attention and was very well done… I would definitely recommend the DisAbility Project to others and encourage other Girl Scout Troops to attend a show in the future.
Rene Lucas, co-leader of
Junior Girl Scout Troop 916

I was moved by the self-empowering work that your abled and disabled actors developed and performed. This work captures the best of theater.

Theater has the power to entertain. It can help us remember, and it can help us escape, but, most importantly, theater has the potential to heal, change, and build community. In your performance, the audience is engaged in the present that is a shared moment. Your work offers the audience a way out of stereotyping, preconceived notions, and fearful responses. Because of this, I suggested to the Cathedral that we invite you and the Project to present your work.

I wanted to share the experience of your collaborative work with the people with whom I worship and grow. We witnessed and participated in your performance together with the members of the St. Thomas Church of the Deaf congregation, a group that shares our space on Sundays. Your work helped to instill a new sensitivity in us for each other.

As the Cathedral sets out to rehab the adjoining Bishop Tuttle Memorial Building and return it to its original purpose as an inner city community center, the members of your troupe helped raise our awareness about our limitations as an accessible and welcoming space.

I have a dear friend disabled by seizures, a result of brain injury. He has recently returned to St. Louis for better care. Leaving his relative independence, he was feeling depressed and alienated. You invited him to a Saturday rehearsal, and your welcome into community has changed him.

On behalf of Christ Church Cathedral, I wish you well in your future efforts.
Bonnie Taylor, Member,
Christ Church Cathedral

Schools

Your touring company was a HIT with the staff and students of Kirkwood High School! I must tell you also that our total student body has never received any group any more warmly than your troupe. They understood you. They were moved by what they saw and heard. When it was appropriate for our students to laugh, they laughed. When the mood called for serious consideration, they did that too. And at the close of both assemblies, the students and staff of Kirkwood High School gave the DisAbility Project performers the standing ovations you deserved.

Bravo for your troupe! Thanks for giving us the chance to see and hear you. Best wishes in your attempt to reach every high school in Missouri. Our students and staff members need to see you.
Franklin S. McCallie, Principal,
Kirkwood High School

KUDOS to all the performers for their excellent presentation of the DisAbility Project. You delighted the audience with your spirit and determination. We were also enriched by the thoughtful scenarios, the great singing and dancing, the rap, and the beautiful and positive closing words. THANK YOU so much for "making this play happen!” May you keep on performing for many more audiences and sharing this great work. Continued good luck to all of you!
Laura DuPont, Principal,
Glenridge Elementary School

The troupe did such an outstanding job today. You enlightened and delighted all of us, children and adults, with your stories, skits, talent, etc....

Thank you so much for sharing your performance with us at Glenridge. We are all a lot richer because of it.

Kudos to everyone, whether it be the performers, director, guest artists or the people who work in the office to manage all of the logistics. I have the deepest respect and admiration for the important work you do.
Roz Dubinsky, Teacher,
Glenridge Elementary School

The performance yesterday was outstanding!! Tell your performers thanks! I talked to a number of students after the performance and they really enjoyed it. Marsha Demba, Teacher, Marquette High School A+! They (the performers) showed their ability to be a contributing part of our society. They showed life as 'a glass half-full, not half empty!' Best was their ability to relate to the fourth grade audience with fun and confidence. When can you come to our school? Harry Pickup, Kennard Classical Academy "It was excellent. I learned to see situations through the eyes of the performers. The best part of the performance was including the students in the production and your interaction with them. We are definitely looking forward to you coming to our school."
Bonnie Riefer,
Athena Elementary School

Creative and moving. You realize it could be you. It makes you think how you would respond if it were you. Would hope you could be as gracious and as talented.
Sheri Lyn Terry,
Drama/Speech Teacher/Director

I am writing to commend the DisAbility Project for its work with our fourth graders. The performance which your troupe did for our kids provided and excellent introduction for the month-long study of disabilities. The vignettes gave the students clear examples of situations faced by folks with a variety of disabilities. These “stories” helped the students to develop an appreciation for the frustrations, obstacles and successes that make life so different, yet similar. I know you made some modifications in the performance to fit the ages of our students; the results were definitely age-appropriate. In addition, the study guide was helpful to teachers and students.

Finally, the opportunity for our students to speak with the troupe’s actors and actresses was also invaluable. Here again, the students could relate the actors’ and actresses’ experiences to their own lives. The conversations were wonderful!

We are already looking forward to doing this again next year. Thanks for all the work you and your troupe put into this effort.
Barbara James Thompson, Assistant Director,
Family Support, New City School

Thank you for the wonderful performance today! The children were captivated by your creative and entertaining expressions of very important topics. Please tell all of the performers that it touched the lives of students, teachers and parents. Thanks again,
Amy Abramson, Parent,
Rossman School

Colleges/Universities

I want to thank That Uppity Theatre Company for the wonderful performance you did for us during our ACCESS Award's Ceremony. The presentation was extremely informative and provided an educational experience for all in an enjoyable, entertaining way.

The feedback that we received from students, faculty, staff, and members of the community was very positive. Everyone walked away from the experience with a better appreciation of daily events that may occur in a person with disabilities life.
Linda Nissenbaum, M. A., Manager, ACCESS Office St. Louis Community College-Meramec, disAbility Support Services

You touched my heart and my mind and so I can only assume that everyone in attendance was touched in some way. So I want to give you one final applause on your performance and say thank you. Thank you for thinking of Maryville University. Thank you for enlightening our community. And thank you for the work that you do everyday that brings ability issues to light.
Danielle J. Carter, Multicultural Programs, Maryville University

You taught me an invaluable lesson while making it entertaining and creative. I thought the performance was wonderful. I learned so much. I feel really speechless about my feelings. All I can say is, “Wow!” and “Well done!”
Megan McCartney, Graduate Student, Maryville University

I liked how it was open to bring up topics that may be sensitive subjects in other settings. It is important to address these issues.
Cruz Martinez, Occupational Therapy Student, Maryville University

To me, the Disability Project means family and friends. The DP provides a comfortable, nonjudgemental environment where I am not afraid to be myself. It allows me to have fun and act with a wonderful group of people who are honest and open. To me, the DP is a community.
Rachel Sieber, Occupational therapy student, Washington University in St. Louis, School of Medicine

Thank you so much for bringing your group to the Washington University Program in Occupational Therapy last month. My students were deeply moved by the entire program. I don’t think many of them had seen, or even thought about, many of the issues that your group brought forth — dancing in a wheelchair, sexuality, personal pain and jubilation from life — it truly opened their eyes. WE are very fortunate that you were able to bring the group to our Program, and hope that this can be an annual event. Next year I hope, if we are able to have a repeat performance, that Fran Cohen can be in attendance, as she has been a vital force in your program as well as ours.

Thanks again for a wonderful program.
Donna Whitehouse, MHA, OTR/L, Coordinator of Student Clinical and Professional Development, Washington University, School of Medicine, Program in Occupational Therapy

Your project is wonderful. Every college or school needs to experience this opportunity to view and hear about personal experiences with disabilities. Your group is full of talent. Thanks for giving me the chance to experience this!
Kate Ebert, Occupational Therapy Student

Thank you so much for the wonderful production you provided at the Direct Support Professionals Conference of St. Charles County. You made the audience more aware of the importance of their roles, as Direct Support Professionals, play in the lives of people with disabilities.

Keep up the wonderful work. The DisAbility Project is making an impact in the St. Louis area. I look forward to seeing you back at St. Charles County Community College in the near future.
Sherrill Wayland, MS, Inclusion and Training Specialist, St. Charles County Community College