Indiana dance programme gives people with disabilities space to perform

A dance programme in Fishers, Indiana, is helping people with physical or intellectual disabilities build confidence, communicate and connect with others. Dance Abilities, based at the Academy of Dance Arts, began after founder Claire Graham reflected on her inability to connect with her sister with Down syndrome while they pursued separate activities. In three years, the programme has expanded from a summer camp for eight young people to year-round classes for about 20 participants.

The programme offers classes for children, teenagers and adults. Graham, who holds a degree in dance and a master’s degree in recreational therapy, said success was measured by whether students had fun and were challenged rather than by perfect positions or performances. Lessons are adapted to individual needs.

Teachers may slow down instruction, use visual cues instead of relying only on verbal directions, and provide helpers who guide students through movements. The programme also adjusts physical exercises for different conditions. Finn Vester, who has autism and Down syndrome, joined after a martial arts class proved unsuitable.

His mother, Nicole, said he felt proud, accomplished and part of a group because lessons were taught at his pace. Other participants described the joy of dancing with friends. Abigail MacGregor said she enjoyed practising and performing new moves, while Tucker McGarrell, who does not walk, runs into his classes, according to his mother.

Graham said students could grow when instructors met them where they were and gave them an opportunity to succeed. She described hearing students tell their parents, “Look, Mom, I did it!” as the programme’s most rewarding outcome.