About three years ago, I found out that there was a
possibility that my unborn daughter could be born with Downs Syndrome. I
decided not to allow the doctors to run any tests, because there were too many
risks. On May 7th, 2010, I went into labor. I didn't have a lot of
amniotic fluid when my water broke. When my daughter Milan was born, I knew
just by looking at her that she had Downs Syndrome. At first, I felt hopeless.
One of the things that discouraged me about having a child with Downs Syndrome,
is that I thought my dreams of going into the field of Entertainment wouldn't
come true. In my mind, I thought that I would be taking care of a sick child 24
hours a day. Not only was I wrong, but seeing my daughter make progress, is a
part of what inspired me to pursue the field of entertainment by enrolling into
Full Sail University. In fact, I have discovered several opportunities for
children like Milan to get involved in entertainment.
Getting a Child with Special Needs into the
Entertainment Industry
Many people have stated that I should get my
children into acting. I had no idea where to begin with Milan, since she was a
child with special needs. I slowly began researching and have stumbled upon
many websites that cater to children with special needs. This
is information taken directly from these organizations’ blogs and websites.
Down Syndrome in
Arts and Media, is located in North Hollywood, CA. It is an online service that
locates talent with developmental disabilities. Gail Williamson, is the
Director.
Located in Atlanta, GA, Yvonne Pierre is a writer, director,
producer and advocate. Yvonne is a devoted mom of two boys. Yvonne Pierre
writes productions that inspire, inform and uplift. Yvonne’s youngest son was
diagnosed with Down syndrome after birth and she has redirected her attention
and primary efforts towards the special needs community. Yvonne Pierre has
written a production called THEN YOU STAND. This story is about a newlywed
couple, who is excited about their first child. Then, they find out that their
unborn child is diagnosed with a disability that leads them to question their
faith. Yvonne Pierre not only utilizes
children that have Downs Syndrome in her production, but it also benefits
research for Downs Syndrome.
Mary
Rings is the Company Director. The Born
to Act Players are located in Van Nuys, CA.
This is a dramatic arts program that includes cast members with and
without disabilities.
The
Performing Arts Studio West is located in Inglewood, California. It is an adult
day program providing hands-on, individual training, career management, and on
location support for performers with developmental disabilities working in
film, television and commercials.
Dionysus
Theatre is located in Houtson, Texas. It
is an inclusive full standing theatre and company educating and empowering
actors with and without disabilities.
Based
on the resources provided, one can see that there are many opportunities for
individuals with special needs to get involved in entertainment for therapeutic
reasons or to pursue a career. I hope this information encourages you!
Mandisa, I am so proud of you and your daughters strength and determination to pursue your gifts in spite of the disability. I know parents and children with disabilities will be inspired by your story. I too had a daughter who was born with a disability. My heart sankwhen I first laid eyes on her and seen that the two fingers on her left hand were missing and toes on her right feet. All Lillian has wanted to do since she was small was become an actress, but she felt that because she was missing her fingers that people would laugh at her and reject her. I have always told her to not let that get in her way. This article has really encouraged me and I am going to let her know of these possibilities. Thank you!
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