This spring, A.B.L.E. – Artists Breaking Limits & Expectations – is celebrating 10 years of creating theatre and film for, with, and by individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We’ve asked our community to share some of their favorite moments from the past decade, and their answers highlight the best of all that we do.
Owning the stage
ABLE intentionally programs an artistic season that gives our actors a chance to share their own imaginations with audiences, and to claim ownership over classical stories. Over the past decade, we’ve put our own spin on everything from Shakespeare to Mary Shelley, and our adaptations are always a highlight of our work, as Matt shares:
“My favorite memory of A.B.L.E. was when we did The Odyssey, because it’s my favorite book from school. We made it into our own as an ensemble, part of that being my role as Odysseus. I had so many lines, but I had help, and the reactions from the audience really inspired me.”
–Matthew, A.B.L.E. actor since 2018
We often think about what the opportunity to perform onstage means for our actors, but it can be just as impactful for our audiences to, as longtime facilitator Kate shares in this memory:
“I learned about ABLE through the wonderful teaching team at Chicago Shakespeare Theater and was invited to see As You Like It in Chicago Shakes’ Courtyard Theater.
I will never forget absolutely LOSING IT sitting front row center, watching Alena perform the iconic Jacques speech “All the world’s a stage.” Alena was so expressive and absolutely owned the room! It was a completely transformative experience — it cracked my heart and mind wide open and set me down a path as a theatre maker and supporter that has enriched my life in ways I never could have fathomed.
It’s a moment I return to often, and a memory that guides me in my exploration of humanity, joy and purpose.”
–Kate, A.B.L.E. facilitator since 2019
Being brave
Over the past 10 years, over 80 actors have taken part in our core ensembles. They’re supported every step of the way by a team of volunteer facilitators who, collectively, have given over 10,000 hours in rehearsal and onstage. Facilitator Erin, recalls how her find her own confidence:
“My favorite memory is being a part of Frankenstein. I had done a few A.B.L.E shows and I’ve always dropped in a little, but not a ton. However Frankenstein was different. I was paired with Marissa as Victor Frankenstein. We had a lot of lines and scenes, and I felt like I wasn’t prepared to step into those shoes at first. Marissa soon erased those fears. With the help of my amazing partner, her energy and preparedness pushed me out of my comfort zone. She helped me become better at dropping in and to really bring the actor out of me as well. I am so glad to have met Marissa and become friends with her.
I really enjoyed working our ensemble! We laughed, cried, and supported each other through the whole process. It was a great experience, and I can’t wait to work on another ensemble soon!”
–Erin Nishida, A.B.L.E. Facilitator since 2023
Creative innovation
One of the things we’re most proud of over the past 10 years is how our team seamlessly continued programming during the height of the pandemic, imagining new ways to work together. While other companies paused or stopped, we actually expanded programming and were able to meet new actors like Emmett. Check out a clip from his favorite project, Romeo & Juliet Remix, below or rent the full movie on our video library.
“I don’t like to pick favorites, but being in my first show, Romeo and Juliet Remix, I met so many people and now they are my friends.
During a couple of the dance parties i got my Elvis jumpsuit and danced and get some fun reactions to it”
– Emmett Fox, A.B.L.E. actor since 2021
Nurturing community
ABLE is a valued creative outlet, but, for many of our actors performing onstage is just the icing on the cake. The real joy is in building relationships and nurturing a sense of agency and independence, as actors Anna and Sophie share:
“My favorite memory is when Claire and I did a death scene in Cyrano. It’s fun to be onstage with my girl.”
–Anna Luzadder, A.B.L.E. Actor since 2016
I love the dance party at the beginning of class every week and hanging out with friends. and I liked taking the train down to class on my own.”
– Sophie Earvolino – A.B.L.E. Actor since 2019
And we have so many more stories to share!
Over the past 10 years, A.B.L.E. has established ourselves as a space for building confidence, trying new things, and above all, nurturing community and belonging. On April 28th, we’ll launch our annual spring fundraising campaign. We’re calling on our community to help us raise $30,000 to Set the Stage for more memorable moments like these. Will you join us?
Here are 4 ways you can make a difference:
Make a one-time tax-deductible donation: Every dollar makes a difference, so give what you are ABLE.
Launch a Peer-to-Peer Campaign: Visit our Givebutter campaign page and register as a fundraiser to set a personal fundraising goal and encourage your friends, family, and colleagues to join you in supporting ABLE. You can earn exclusive ABLE swag including an A.B.L.E. hoodie!
Join our Monthly Giving Circle: automated monthly gifts provide reliable revenue to help us plan ahead and meet new opportunities and challenges. Monthly donors receive perks including complimentary tickets to events, behind the scenes opportunities, and more.
Spread the Word: Like, comment, and share our stories and posts throughout the campaign. You can also access our #SetTheStage Messaging Kit for sample emails to reach out to your network.
