A.B.L.E. - Artists Breaking Limits & Expectations
Melanie Zehner is a versatile professional with a background in drama and theatre. Melanie has extensive experience as a Program Associate at ArtStream, Inc., where Melanie developed programing and led virtual programing. Melanie has also worked as an Assistant Director, Choreographer, and Writer. In addition to their work with various theatre companies, Melanie is a dedicated Teaching Artist specializing in theatre, dance, and yoga. Melanie's passion for the arts shines through in their commitment to teaching and developing theatrical programming for individuals with disabilities.
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A.B.L.E. - Artists Breaking Limits & Expectations
We believe everyone is ABLE to connect, to contribute, to create. We are A.B.L.E. - Artists Breaking Limits & Expectations. Our mission is to provide performing arts experiences through which individuals with Down syndrome and other intellectual and developmental disabilities build the confidence and skills to share who they are and all they are ABLE to do! A.B.L.E engages learners ages 14 and up through 3 branches of programming – ensembles, workshops, and outreach: 1) Ensembles: Supported by a team of teaching artists and volunteer facilitators, ensembles work together to create theatre and film projects. Ensembles produce between 2-6 projects annually. These have included feature films, devised shows, and classical adaptations. This mix allows actors to share their own voices with audiences, and to claim ownership over stories which have not traditionally been “for” them. A.B.L.E. has developed unique performance supports to ensure all actors can succeed, regardless of literacy, verbal ability or short term memory. 2) Workshops: One-time sessions introduce participants to new performance techniques including Puppetry and On-Camera Acting. In addition to specialized curricula developed by A.B.L.E. teaching artists, A.B.L.E. also partners with guest artists for workshops and field trips. 3) Outreach: Teaching artists visit community organizations that serve individuals with I/DD for workshops and longer residencies. A.B.L.E. also hosts professional development training for teaching artists and industry professionals interested in deepening their practices for inclusivity and accessibility. Whether in person or online, all programs strive to foster independence, deepen social skills, and celebrate creativity.