Partners in Arts Participation

The theater project provided valuable theater arts training, which helped expand the scope and skills of Partnership Resources, Inc.'s theater troupe, all of whom are adults with developmental disabilities and in some instances, physical disabilities as well. The project activities, with specially equipped transportation vehicles, professional instruction, props and costumes, as well as rehearsal and production space for a Western melodrama were provided free of charge, thus eliminating some of the biggest barriers to participation in the arts for this population (economic, accessibility, professional instruction, space). The filled seats in the Ritz Theater for both performances were evidence of success. We also measured project success by client satisfaction and Partnership Resources, Inc. staff requesting more and similar theater projects. We received feedback via email and face to face conversations with clients, staff, board members, and families at each performance. The response was overwhelmingly positive. 2: Partnership Resources, Inc.'s project partner, Sounds of Hope, was chosen due to their long standing relationship with Partnership Resources, Inc. and their professional credentials. All those involved in the project either hold an arts degree or have many years experience working as professional artists, but many can claim both credentials. The collaboration gave Sounds of Hope artists an opportunity to apply skills in a different context. The professional artist instruction provided Partnership Resources, Inc. actors new resources to tap into in order to stretch themselves artistically and develop their skill-sets more deeply. On the front end of the project, Partnership Resources, Inc. and Sounds of Hope met many times to evaluate the previous theater project we collaborated on and design the new project based on extensive and detailed feedback from participants. The project was designed in a way that allowed for an inclusive and satisfactory experience for Partnership Resources, Inc. actors, who have a wide range of theatrical skills and abilities. As the project progressed, personnel adjusted aspects to meet client needs.