Barrier-Free's Inclusive Theater Process

 Barrier-Free's inclusive theatre companies follow a multi-step approach where individuals of all abilities come together to create original one-act shows to be performed at the end of each season.  

Inclusive Theater Companies are made possible by a longstanding partnership with McDaniel College. Barrier-Free offers internships to undergrad and grad students, providing an opportunity for students to receive direct experience in a truly inclusive environment.

We rehearse at 25 Union Street Westminster, MD 21157 and perform at McDaniel College's Alumni Hall Theater - 2 College Hill Westminster, MD 21157.​ 

Our season begins in September and culminates with performances in March.

Join us March 17, 18 & 19th!

Join us THIS WEEKEND - March 17, 18, 19 for The Great Casino Caper and Check Matey, at McDaniel College's Theater!

First up for Act I, The Great Casino Caper, performed by Inclusive Theater Company A. Join Kevin Bond and his partner, Arnold Palmeroy, as they embark on solving the wackiest heist in casino history -- The Great Casino Caper! Follow along as seemingly innocent conference attendees practice the art of deception at The Great Casino's annual Detecticon, a conference for police detectives. Will the heist go as planned or will the thieves be caught red-handed as they attempt to acquire expensive merchandise using the ol' five-finger discount?

Up next for Act II, Check Matey, performed by Inclusive Theater Company B. For this crew of pirates, there's just no adventureon the high seas anymore. Nothing new to fill their day. No obstacles in their way. That is until the wind blows a strange "map" on their shores, thus changing their tides forever! The map? A chess board! Guided by a team of chess players, these crazy buccaneers are ready to learn the game in their own way and win the World Chess Tournament. Together, they’ll tell the world they’re more than just brains and scallywags!

Online ticket sales end Wednesday, March 15th but tickets will still be available at the door.
This is a family friendly show with a runtime of approx 2 hours with a 20 minute intermission.

Multi-Step Drama Therapy Based Approach

Step 1: Group Dynamics

Here at Barrier-Free, we are relationship-oriented.  At the start of each Inclusive theater company (ITC) season, we spend the first month of rehearsals establishing a positive group dynamic.  We work to build a safe space where each person is free to take risks, be creative, build friendships, and experience individual growth.   

Step 2: Improvisational Acting

The second part of the ITC process focuses on drama games and improv scenes.  While we are having fun with these activities, we start to notice that certain themes, settings, and characters are arising.  These ideas begin to shape and mold into a story that is able to be translated into a cohesive script to be rehearsed and performed.

The director also takes this time to learn each actor's unique skills, strengths, and interests so they are able to write a script that fits the needs of our actors.

Step 3: Rehearsing with our Script

After the script has been written, we spend many rehearsals working through the theater process.  We incorporate many elements to bring our show to life including:
  • Blocking (how actors move about on stage)
  • Line memorization
  • Character development work
  • Props
  • Singing & choreography
  • Costumes

Step 4: Show Time!

After months of rehearsals, we are ready to take our show to the stage!  ITC shows are performed in a live theater space and include lights, sound, tickets, concessions, and more.

Each actor has their shining moment on stage to perform with their theatre company and earn a well deserved round-of-applause and bow at the curtain call.

It is a magical experience for actors and audience members!

Inclusive Theater Company A

​Adults (18+) with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities & Autism

Inclusive Theater Company B

Adults (18+) with Autism
​In some instances, you may join BOTH groups if you have a dual diagnosis.

Check Out Our Work

Opening Song "S'mores Wars"
​March 2022

Opening Song "One Star Resort"
​March 2022

Ready to join?

Company A & B both currently have waiting lists for the 2022-2023 season. Register for our waiting list here.  We will notify prospective participants as spaces become available.

Need more information?

​Visit our Contact page for all the ways to contact us with questions.

Worried about committing?

We offer a "test-run," no commitment opportunity where you can drop-in for 1-2 rehearsals and see if Barrier-Free is the right fit for you.  Contact us directly to schedule your "test-run."
Picture
Brian [green polo shirt] pictured above in his role as Lucas, the broody shuttle service employee.
What a wonderful production and fabulous experience you created for all of us, cast, family and friends alike.  All of the hard work resulted in such a creative, heartfelt, spirited show for every performance!

We can't thank the Inclusive Theater Team enough for the experience afforded to Brian. We were amazed at his performance. Britt & Lauren both have so many superpowers, and "changing lives" has to be at the top of their list. 

- Jean Considine, mother to Brian Considine, Co. B Actor

 Inclusive Theater Company Gallery