AREA STAGE INC

The inclusion theatre project is a one of a kind program that provides arts training within the musical theatre medium to students with developmental and intellectual disabilities. The program, pioneered by executive director maria banda-rodaz in 2014, is rooted in asc's belief that training in the performing arts can help these students develop essential life skills and should be accessible for all. The program offers 2-3 productions a year, private and group classes, and many performance opportunities at outreach and community events. Itp's innovative, comprehensive curriculum was developed by asc conservatory founders with the help of special education expert consultants. As attested to by a growing body of formal research associating arts education with gains in emotional intelligence and academic performance, we have observed its power firsthand in our itp students as they gain skills, confidence, and the capacity for self-expression. The performance opportunities associated with itp classes also provide an additional sense of purpose and engagement to our students while also fostering increased understanding in their audiences, paving the way for a more inclusive community overall