Who We Are

Barrier-Free is a non-profit, disability service organization that provides inclusive art, self-advocacy, and social programming to the community for adults with disabilities.

Theater

We offer two inclusive theater companies where neurodiverse adults ages 18+ come together to create original full-production musicals.  Our shows are full-scale productions at McDaniel College's Theater with costumes, tech, music, and more!

We also offer expressive arts classes covering a variety of themes including improvisational acting, dance, and more!

Social

Barrier-Free offers social club outings for adults 18+ with intellectual/developmental disabilities and autism. 

These are staffed events with the goal of building friendships, integrating into society, and developing independent life skills.
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We also offer social-skill based classes that provide intentional focus on developing our social skills.

Self-Advocacy

Through our classes and workshops, adults 18+ with intellectual/developmental disabilities and autism learn and practice self-advocacy skills.

Self-advocacy skills translate to all areas of life including the workplace, home, friendships, and more.
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Original Show Premiere Date

Join us Friday, March 26 at 8pm for the premiere of "Abracadabra, Your Honor" and "I Do, I Think!" 

Act I, "Abracadabra, Your Honor," is about a group of mischievous magicians who are hired to boost revenue at a struggling theater. After a few too many schemes, these magicians find themselves in court being sued by the theater staff! Will justice be served or do these magicians have another trick up their sleeve?

Act II, "I Do, I Think" is about love birds Luigi and Sloane preparing for their "best day ever!"  Everything is smooth and perfect until Steve, an uninvited guest, comes crashing into the party.  Will the wedding proceed?  Has the big day been ruined?  Can anyone stop Steve from eating all the lamb shanks?  Tune in to find out!

These short-films will premiere LIVE on Youtube & Facebook Friday, March 26 at 8pm.

Grant Announcement

Barrier-Free is thrilled to announce we are the recipients of an
​Arts Opportunity Mini-Grant from the Carroll County Arts Council.

View the full press release on our blog.

Valentine's Love Notes

Our "Besties & Buds" class participants have some 💗 Valentine's Love Notes 💗 to bring cheer to your day!

You can also check out the song on Barrier-Free's Youtube & Facebook!

Now Enrolling

Join us on Zoom for improv fun with a final recorded “Improv Showcase” led by teaching artists, Emma Shipley & Michael Eaton!

During this four week class, participants will use improv games and activities to enhance real-life skills including active listening, movement & body language, emotional expression, and two-way dialogue.
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This class is a mixed abilities class, perfect for new & returning Barrier-Free participants.
​Details:
  • Adults (18+) with intellectual/developmental disabilities & autism
  • Thursdays 6:30 - 7:30 pm
  • March 4 - 25 (4 weeks)
  • ​Tuition: $30
  • Class held via Zoom​​
  • Teaching Artist: Emma Shipley
  • Assistant Teaching Artist: Michael Eaton

Check Out Our Work
If my son is "off" or quiet, never once have Barrier-Free staff given up, or gotten discouraged. They are patient, and know he'll find his words. Barrier-Free believes in him.... and continues to have an extraordinary impact on my sons world.

- Melanie Rawlings, mother of Alex White, Barrier-Free actor

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Barrier-Free actors Mike Eaton and Alex White in What it Means to be Super (2019).

By the Numbers

​4:1

Average Actor-Staff Ratio

30+

Programs per Year

​96%

Participant Retention Rate

55+

Actors in our Programs