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

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

DSL’s David DeSanctis Honored in New York

A star-studded event was hosted in New York City and it was a night of celebration to raise funds to support the Down syndrome community. This impactful evening will honor trailblazer and Life Goes On actor, Chris Burke, and others who have helped expand representation for our community in film and television.     Follow […]

Read More

Board Staff Support Spotlight – Meet Cameron

Cameron Fontes DSL Staff—Executive Assistant DSL has been part of my family’s life since my brother Bailey was born in August 2002. I didn’t know what Down syndrome was at the time, I was just irritated that whoever was in charge at the hospital wouldn’t let my brother come home right away. I thought his […]

Read More

Paperdolls Photoshoot

Read More

Board Spotlight – Meet Dwight

Dwight Newton Reason for Being Part of DSL: Since I was 9 years old I have had the amazing experience of spending time with and around individuals who help me understand compassion and caring. These are not natural traits of mine. When I was 9 I got introduced to a class at the Stewart Home […]

Read More

Board Spotlight – Meet Jennifer

Jennifer Schinke Kendrick “[She] was not about to leave the game and go over and stand against the wall where a loser would stand. She intended to participate, wherever Mermaids fit into the scheme of things. Without giving up dignity or identity. She took it for granted that there was a place for Mermaids and […]

Read More

Board Spotlight – Meet Chad

Chad Hennessey I’m a lifelong Louisvillian (aside from my 4.5 years in Bowling Green attending Western Kentucky University).  I’m a proud partner at Insuramax, a locally owned independent insurance agency. I’ve been at Insuramax since August of 2000. My wife Cindy and I are high school sweethearts and will be celebrating our 25th wedding anniversary this […]

Read More

Celebrate WDSD with a New Tattoo!

Celebrate World Down Syndrome Day this March with a brand new tattoo! Book your session with the Main Street Tattoo team Monday through Saturday throughout March! Main Street is offering 3×3 tattoos for the generous price of $50, but if you’d like to book something outside the provided tattoos below, please discuss this with the […]

Read More

DSL Setting the Standard!

DSL leadership spent this past week/weekend at the annual Down Syndrome Affiliates in Action Leadership Conference in Dallas! The conference is an opportunity to learn and grow by sharing best practices with other Down Syndrome Associations across the country. DSAIA’s Accreditation program helps organizations achieve excellence in nonprofit management and honors best practices. The DSAIA […]

Read More
Translate our Site »