Embracing Diversity and Empowering Voices: Actors Theatre’s Commitment to Inclusion

Megan and Madeline with their former teacher. All of the women smileIn the pursuit of fostering inclusivity and giving voice to underrepresented communities, Actors Theatre of Louisville has taken a significant step by hiring disabled teaching artists to work with a diverse group of students. Among these exceptional individuals are Madeline Franklin and Megan Mudd, who bring their unique perspectives and talents to the forefront, creating a transformative experience for disabled students.

Madeline and Megan, two young women with Down syndrome, have returned to their alma mater, Waggener High School, as teaching artists with Actors Theatre of Louisville. Their story challenges norms and proves that individuals of all abilities can achieve their dreams.

Actors Theatre’s decision to hire disabled teaching artists is a powerful statement of their commitment to diversity. By having role models who share similar experiences and challenges, disabled students at Waggener High School can see themselves reflected in the professionals guiding them. This representation is essential for nurturing self-confidence, breaking down barriers, and encouraging disabled individuals to pursue their dreams, both within the performing arts and beyond.

Actors Theatre’s initiative to hire disabled teaching artists is a call to action for other arts organizations, schools, and institutions to embrace diversity and inclusivity. By recognizing the value and talents that disabled individuals bring to the table, we can create a more equitable society that celebrates and supports individuals of all abilities.

Tagged Items:

Similar Articles

Welcome Ashley C

Please help us welcome DSL’s new Teen and Adult Transitions Manager, Ashley Corley!     Hello DSL members, families and friends, My name is Ashley Corley, and I am the new Teen & Adult Transition Manager! Down Syndrome of Louisville has been a place near and dear to my heart for many years. For those […]

Read More

Sexuality Education for Individuals with Extensive Support Needs Survey

  Dear Caregiver, We’re reaching out regarding an opportunity to provide your thoughts regarding sexuality education for individuals with extensive support needs. Below is more detailed information regarding the research study; if you are interested in participating, here is a link to the survey: Caregiver Survey If you have any additional questions, please feel free to […]

Read More

Meet our 2024 Annual Award Winners…

Citizens of the Year: Trenton Brunner & Corey Morgan For Outstanding Achievements in the Down Syndrome Community A few things shared about them: “Corey is a true kindness warrior. He works two jobs at Home Depot and Walgreens where he gets praises from his bosses. Corey participates in many sports through specials Olympics. He created […]

Read More

Welcome Jon B

Please give a warm welcome to DSL’s new Engagement Coordinator Jon B! “Hello! My name is Jon Beams! I first learned about DSL years ago through volunteer programs and the robust community in and around Kentuckiana. I believe in bringing positive experiences and fun with me everywhere I go. A smile truly speaks a thousand words! […]

Read More

Welcome Sydney and Carrie!

DSL’s new Preschool is up and running thanks to our new team members! “My name is Sydney Bastin and I am so excited to lead the new DSL preschool program! With a bachelor’s in health science from Spalding University, and experience at several nonprofits in the area including Sproutlings Pediatric Daycare and Home of the […]

Read More

Club 21 with Gravely Brewing Co

Join DSL at Gravely Brewing Co for our first-ever beer release! We’ve partnered with Gravely Brewing Co for our first-ever beer, the “Boogie Down Brew”! Join DSL at Gravely on Friday, October 11th from 5-8 for our official beer release! Enjoy not only a fresh beverage but also a performance from the Boogie Down Crew! […]

Read More

A Derby Double for DSL!

Win a piece of Derby 150 History While Supporting Down Syndrome of Louisville   Nonprofit Benefits from Raffle of Winning Jockey’s Oaks and Derby Pants Click here for DSL’s Press Release Louisville, Ky. (May 5, 2024) – Following their attendance at the Down Syndrome of Louisville (DSL) Gallop Gala in April, jockey Brian Hernandez and […]

Read More

2024 Gallop Gala Recap

    View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Jonathan Cullen (@joncullen_video)   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Jo (@uraveragejo) Download your 360 photobooth videos

Read More

New Weekly Update Posted

 Click here for your DSL Weekly Family Update!

Read More

New DSL Committees

DSL Families, We are launching NEW DSL Volunteer Committees and we are excited to have our families participate. Please scroll through these photos to see the new committees forming and if you are interested in any of them fill out the form below. These committees will meet 4-6 times a year (some in-person/Some virtual) but […]

Read More

Glamming for Gala 2024 Recap



Read More

DSL Visits the Capitol!

Three members of the Adult Developmental Academy got to go to Frankfort to participate in the Sunny Pages program. They also got to make an informational video about World Down Syndrome Day, and the Rock Your Socks movement.  Sam, Joe, and Connor got to be honorary pages on the Senate floor for the day. They […]

Read More
Translate our Site »