Unified Theater

As the name implies, this program is about togetherness. It combines students who have disabilities with those who don't in the creative enterprise of performing - together. Micaela Connery was 15 years old when her relationship with her cousin, Kelsey, who has multiple disabilities, inspired her to develop a way for kids to spend time together in a theater program. Kelsey and Micaela were both born only 3 months apart, but enjoyed common interests together. Micaela wanted other kids to experience what she did with her cousin, and realize that people, no matter what their abilities, can learn from each other.

UNIFIED THEATER is a school-based performing arts program. Since it started it has been incorporated into fifty schools, involved more than 4,000 students, and has appeared in front of more than 10,000 audience members. So, within the program, teens staff all of the production roles. Since the production is original, students write the entire show, make the costumes, invent dance moves, and handle the lighting and sets. There is no classification of participants; everyone participates fully. This is not just a one-time program, as commercial programs that are purchased by some schools turn out to be. This is meant to be a year-round program and is incorporated into the curriculum and can also continue from year to year. The focus is on the schools and programs have been developed for middle school, high school, and college. The latest feature has been developing local collaborations with theater groups.

So, what has happened to the two inspirations behind this wonderful concept? Well, Micaela still works with Unified Theater as Executive Director. In 2009, she graduated from University of Virginia with high distinction. She continues to advocate for inclusion in many different venues. Kelsey graduated from Middletown High School and delivers newspapers for the Newport Daily News. And Unified Theater continues to provide life-changing experiences for the students who continue to participate. As I suspect, from the many photos, it is also a joyful experience, as well.

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