Two theatre companies from across the globe are celebrating 15 years of helping people with learning disabilities reach their full potential.

ArtStream, in Maryland, USA, and Blue Apple Theatre, based at the University of Winchester, Hampshire, UK, are joining together to celebrate each other’s 15^th anniversaries in a special birthday Zoom event Wednesday, August 26, 2020.

Both theatre companies, which aim to transform the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities- including autism – through the performing arts, were set up in 2005 and are this year celebrating their 15^th anniversary.

The special online birthday party will include participants from both Blue Apple and ArtStream sharing warm-up routines, dance moves and a virtual blowing out of the candles on a birthday cake.

Heller An Shapiro, executive director at ArtStream, said: “Teaming up with Blue Apple is a great opportunity for our performers with intellectual and developmental disabilities – including autism- to be inspired by the accomplishments of their peers across the world.”

“We are honored to be celebrating our 15^th anniversary together! Both Blue Apple and ArtStream showcase the many talents of people with disabilities, building confidence and skills that are transferable to the workplace and social settings.”

Simon Morris, general manager at Blue Apple, said: “We are very excited to be teaming up with ArtStream to celebrate 15 years of both our organisations. ArtStream is an inspirational organisation that shares identical values with Blue Apple about helping to achieve more equality for people with learning disabilities, who are disadvantaged in mainstream culture in so many ways.”

“Both companies support people to develop their personal skills by learning theatre skills and then challenge for more inclusion in the wider world. Like us, ArtStream believes that if people are given more opportunities to show what they can do then they will break the glass ceiling.”

About ArtStream:

ArtStream serves over 1,100 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities -including autism – in the DMV. ArtStream’s 800 classes and workshops, and 10 performing companies fuel each student’s imagination, creativity, and focus. And that’s not all. Students improve communication and social skills and develop friendships. Newly discovered talents and capabilities improve self-esteem, poise, and confidence that extends into their daily lives. All students are valued for their creative contributions. At ArtStream we work together, learn from each other, and Perform Our Art Out.