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EPIC Players and Their Spring Awakening

In the world of theater, EPIC Players (Empower, Perform, Include, Create) stands as a beacon of inclusivity and empowerment... Read More

17 mins
May 14

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In the world of theater, EPIC Players (Empower, Perform, Include, Create) stands as a beacon of inclusivity and empowerment. Founded on August 25, 2016, this nonprofit, neuro-diverse theater company is on a mission to revolutionize the landscape of performing arts by providing professional opportunities and fostering supportive communities for Neurodivergent and Disabled artists.

EPIC Players doesn't just stage productions; they orchestrate movements. Through their inclusive mainstage productions, musical cabarets, original showcases, skills-based classes, and career resources, they are rewriting the narrative of employment for individuals living with developmental disabilities. In a world where only 32% of eligible working-age individuals with disabilities are employed, EPIC Players is leading the charge for change.

Determined to shatter stereotypes and challenge societal norms, EPIC Players confronts the stark reality that only 2% of roles in the entertainment industry are written for characters living with disabilities, and a staggering 94% of these roles are portrayed by able-bodied or neuro-typical actors. #changethestats isn't just a hashtag for EPIC Players; it's a battle cry for equality and representation.

At the heart of EPIC's vision lies a commitment to providing a platform where neuro-diverse communities can not only be represented but also heard. With a minimum of two professional, neuro-diverse productions staged annually on New York City's prestigious stages, EPIC Players has carved out a space where creativity knows no bounds. From The Flea to The Sheen Center, from A.R.T./New York to the HERE Arts Center, their productions transcend barriers and captivate audiences with their authenticity and raw emotion.

And now, they have unveiled their latest masterpiece, Spring Awakening. With music by Duncan Sheik and winner of eight Tony Awards, including Best Musical, this show delves into the tumultuous journey of adolescence, exploring themes of attraction, desire, sex, insecurity, and the rollercoaster ride of young adult life. But what sets this production apart is its unique perspective, brought to life by the talented neurodivergent community members of EPIC Players. This isn't just a re-telling; it's a revelation—a testament to the power of inclusivity and the magic of theater.

Stay tuned for Season 2 of The Spotlight Series in Fall 2024 as we focus on this amazing company and the EPIC work they are doing onstage and off.

Music: "Divergence" by Filo Starquez is licensed under a Creative Commons License.

https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/3.0/

https://hypeddit.com/filostarquez/divergence-1

Support by RFM - NCM: https://bit.ly/2xGHypM

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