The Disabled Down Center training program, a free arts training program for Disabled performers and allies, has announced its inaugural fall class. 

Disabled Down Center—a series of free virtual master classes and workshops for Disabled performers and non-Disabled allies led by top entertainment industry professionals—will launch October 15 on Zoom. ASL Interpreters will be provided, and captions will be turned on. The program is an expansion of the Disabled Down Center concert that was presented by Playbill June 27. At the first annual concert, disabled performers took the stage at the Green Room 42, performing showtunes from pivotal productions and starring in roles they were never considered for due to ableism.

Fall teaching artists will include casting directors Marci Phillips and Tara Rubin. Additional teaching artists will be announced at a later date. 

Disabled Down Center is created by Brennan Srisirikul and produced by Srisirikul, Danielle Pretsfelder Demchick, and Aaron Glick. Playbill is the presenting sponsor, and Musical Theatre Factory (MTF) is the fiscal partner. Juliette Sallaway is the graphic designer.

“Everyone is welcome at the Disabled Down Center Training Program, Disabled or not,” said producer, performer, and creator of Disabled Down Center Srisirikul. “One of the cornerstones of Disabled Down Center, with our annual benefit concert and now with the training program, is to provide opportunities for Disabled performers along with our allies. Performing arts training is often so expensive, which creates a barrier for so many. While we are spotlighting disability, inclusion is ultimately about everyone learning and growing together.”

Disabled Down Center is free and virtual via Zoom. International participants are welcome. Disabled Down Center is committed to creating as comfortable and inclusive an environment as possible. If any accommodations are needed, note it when signing up. To learn more visit DisabledDownCenter.com.