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Brief Description Artists Unlimited, Inc. provides opportunities for individuals with physical and/or developmental disabilities to participate in the performing arts, specifically musical theater. In addition, it affords the public opportunities to experience the considerable artistic talent of individuals with special needs. Artists Unlimited, Inc. is a non-profit, 501(c) 3 organization, bringing the theater experience to teens and adults who are physically and developmentally disabled as well as able-bodied Mission Statement The mission of Artists Unlimited, Inc. is to offer a unique expressive experience, in a safe haven, to those individuals who may not otherwise have an opportunity to participate as actors in other venues. Performing quality works with the message of inclusion and respect, Artists Unlimited, Inc.’s theater program seeks to break down barriers and stereotypes often attributed to those who are disabled. By integrating our cast, the able-bodied and disabled often learn life skills from each other that go beyond the theater venue. How We Came About and the Benefits of our Organization In 1996 the musical Grease was produced with the Greece Athena High School as a fundraiser for the School of the Holy Childhood, as they were in desperate need of a new gymnasium floor. Given the fundraiser was for Holy Childhood we had approximately 25 students attend each performance. One young man, however, was standing and dancing as he sung the closing song with energy and a look of great happiness that words cannot describe. During the close of the performance as this young man was leaving with his mother, she was told what a beautiful voice her son had and that he should also be on stage with his incredible voice. As she left she swelled up with tears and said “…unfortunately, no one wants my son on stage”… As this issue was researched, it became evident that she was in fact correct, musical programs for individuals with special needs are limited, selective, and modest at best and no real professional production of a musical was available for them to participate in. During the period of time until the year 2000, further research conducted with visits, calls and with the internet made it very clear this was going to be a challenge. No one had actually undertaken a project of this nature within the US and that we could look to no one for help, advice or their experience. In 2002, the first effort was launched that would offer individuals with developmental and/or physical disabilities the opportunity to be in a musical production. With the rallying cry of “….there is no such word as can’t…” we moved forward to produce Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat with great success only to perform it again a few months later!!!! Annually over the past six years, the program has given well over one hundred individuals a place to demonstrate their talents. We have seen confidence soar, passions emerge and anticipation grow for our next show. In addition, our productions afford mainstream individuals the opportunity to partner with those with disabilities, fostering unique friendships, relationships and personal growth. This program has resulted in a number of sold out shows, allowing the community to embrace the gifts and talents of these individuals as they demonstrate what they can achieve with the support made available by our organization. In 2007, Artists Unlimited, Inc. was formed, incorporated, applied for and obtained 501(c) 3 status. Although the unofficial organization had already produced five shows, the newly formed corporation has produced an additional three shows, the first being Disney’s High School Musical in 2007 (to multiple sold out performances), The Wizard of Oz in 2008 (also an extremely successful show with sold out performances) and this year’s upcoming show, Cinderella. You can also view our new web site at www.rocartistsunlimited.com. More content being added daily to website Sources of Funding Past and present musical productions have been funded by contributions by individuals (dollars and in kind), corporate sponsors, program advertising, and ticket sales. Our productions would not have been possible without the generous donation of time "above and beyond" by our modestly compensated artistic and vocal directors and the contribution of thousands of hours of volunteer time. If you would like to help us by sponsoring this year's show, Cinderella, please click here for additional information.
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