Something truly magical takes place
on Monday evenings at the Media Theatre.
While
all of the theater’s musicals, concerts, classes and special events are all
wonderfully creative and entertaining, the theater breaks down barriers for
people with intellectual disabilities when they hold special rehearsals for a
troupe of adults with intellectual disabilities.
The
Media Theatre State Street Miracles, a performance troupe of 14 adults with
intellectual disabilities, have a mission to spread the joy of music and dance
while increasing awareness of the talents and abilities of people with
disabilities.
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| The State Street Miracles, a performance troupe of adults with developmental disabilities |
2016
marks their 10th anniversary of performing and remarkable strides
have been made in those 10 years. The troupe has grown from eight to 14
performers, they’ve learned the music, lyrics and choreography for 14 songs
from classic musicals to pop and rock, and they’ve played to audiences from
Harrisburg to Washington, D.C. They will be traveling to Harrisburg once again on March 16, 2016, to perform for the Pennsylvania Senate.
The
Miracles are ambassadors in song who use their vocal and dance talents to show
that people with disabilities have many abilities. Their performances are
professional, yet spontaneous as the Miracles introduce themselves and perform
a repertoire of songs from show tunes to modern hits including the Journey
song, “Don’t Stop Believin’.”
Wherever
they perform, smiles instantly appear on people’s faces as they are inspired
and entertained by their lively dancing and singing.
The
Miracles are directed by Roger Ricker and trained and accompanied by Tim Heaney
under the guidance of Media Theatre Director Jesse Cline. Members of the State Street Miracles are: John Abrams of Swarthmore, Aaron Brooks of Folsom, Patrick Clark of Springfield, Peter Crumb of Upper Providence, Maryjo D’Allesandro of Divine Providence Village, Springfield, Nakisha Edwards of Media, Ted Harris of Rose Valley, Erin McGivney of Wayne, Brian Short, Jake Spencer, Kimiko Iizuka and Kim Watson, all of Middletown; Brittany Roberts of Edgmont; and Erin Perry.
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| The Miracles often perform at Delaware County's Naturalization Ceremonies |
Since they were
organized in September, 2006, the State Street Miracles have earned standing
ovations for many performances, including concerts at the Rose Tree Summer
Festival, the Pennsylvania Special Olympics Fall Festival at Villanova
University. They’ve also traveled to Harrisburg where they were recognized by
the state Senate and performed in the Rotunda, and to Washington, D.C., where
they performed in the Senate Rotunda.
The troupe, which
is sponsored by the Media Theatre, features 14 adults who have various
developmental disabilities from autism to Down syndrome, but love to sing,
dance and perform. The emphasis at Monday night rehearsals goes beyond
performing. Since they joined the group, all members have experienced improved
speech and articulation, better independence and decision-making, increased
self-esteem, and most importantly, they’ve formed friendships with their fellow
performers, the Media Theater staff, and members of the overall community.
Their
repertoire includes a rousing rendition of “God Bless America,” a meaningful
version of “Getting to Know You,” their theme song, and a hip-shaking version
of Elvis Presley’s “Hound Dog.” The group enjoys singing “Lean On Me,” which
communicates an inspiring message of support for each other.
Their
message is also embraced in “That’s What Friends are For,” “Sing A Song” and
“We Are the World.”
The mission of the
State Street Miracles is to provide people with disabilities an outlet to
express their musical and artistic talent while raising awareness in the
community of the creative abilities of people who have a developmental
disability.
While
people with disabilities are more included today in the school and work
environment, there are still many barriers preventing them from participating
in the arts community. The Media Theatre, a professional music theater,
provides a bridge to performance opportunities.
The
State Street Miracles are taught in weekly sessions that provide them with
affordable access to performance classes, plus the opportunity to perform.
During
their introductions, the members tell a bit about themselves including their
jobs and athletic accomplishments, and they stress that they are registered
voters and they hold jobs.
The
State Street Miracles are available to perform one or all of their songs at
community functions. They are also available to open events with the national
anthem or “God Bless America.” For information about the State Street Miracles,
contact Trish Cofiell at 610-322-6806.
If you would like to support or donate to The State Street Miracles, please email Roger at rer764@gmail.com. The Miracles program relies on donations to succeed.
