Disability Inclusion Committee

Mission Statement: Working within and alongside the Center Stage Theater (CST) Board of Directors to create an environment of inclusion and understanding by removing barriers in order to promote participation backstage, on stage, and in the audience.

Vision

  • Appointing an Inclusion Liaison* for every CST production.

  • Honoring CST’s dedication to cast every actor who is willing to make the time commitment

  • Providing flexibility during auditions and rehearsals, including but not limited to, barrier-free facilities, individualized education and guidance, quiet spaces, safety and accessibility considerations.

  • Pairing actors with peer mentors.

  • Accommodating makeup and costume needs, including any allergies, sensitivities, sensory requests and safety concerns.

  • Coordinate ASL performances.

  • Organizing Sensory Show details. Watch our informational slideshow on this page or visit the Sensory Friendly Performances page here.

  • Ensuring barrier-free facilities for all performances.

*The Inclusion Coordinator will help facilitate all of the above. This person, appointed per show production, will be available to all cast and crew, and should be considered a confidant and advocate where all participants are considered genuinely and equally. The purpose of this position is not to babysit or control casts in their overall behaviors. 

Inclusion coordinator expectations:

  • As part of the production team, attend all production meetings, auditions, rehearsals and performances as deemed necessary by the team & as needed for the type of show.

    • Each type of show will have different expectations, so flexibility is required.

    • Communication of availability, in advance, will allow for someone to be actively in this role at all times during the production process.

  • Report to committee for growth and evolution of this role, as well as that of CST as an inclusive group. The committee will provide support in the form of resources & advice.

  • Be willing to engage in crucial conversations AND facilitate resolutions.

  • Gauge the responsiveness of cast members, families, crew, stage and audience.

  • Respect the privacy of all involved in every aspect of this position.

  • Advocate for CST values in person and online.

  • Anticipate needs to promote positive participation by gathering information, making observations, actively listening and effectively communicating