Barrier-Free's Inclusive Theater Process

 Barrier-Free's inclusive theatre companies follow a multi-step approach where neurodiverse actors with disabilities & autism, staff, and mentors come together to create original one-act shows to be performed at the end of each season.  

Inclusive theatre companies (ITC) are for adults (18+) with intellectual/developmental disabilities, down syndrome, and/or autism.

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

​Our Inclusive Theater Companies rehearse for 7 months, September - March.

Upcoming Performances

Join us Saturday March 19 at 2pm or 7pm for the RESCHEDULED performances of S'mores Wars & One Star Resort, LIVE & IN PERSON at McDaniel College's Alumni Hall Theater.

Show Descriptions:
First, join us on Sweet Retreat Isle for the S'mores Wars competition! Reigning champion, Flamin' Roger, and his group of campfire friends will be coaching and cheering on a team of new competitors, each hoping to secure a win. Mix in a goofy airport crew, campfire songs, and WAY too much baggage for a laugh-out-loud adventure from start to finish! Ready? Set. S'mores!

Up next, what happens when a seemingly "great deal" dream island getaway turns into a vacation nightmare? You wind up at a One Star Resort complete with a bumpy shuttle service, a vegan restaurant, and a janky maintenance man named Steve. That's right. Steve. Brace for impact!

Can't make the performance?

Purchase a professionally recorded, digital copy of our show.

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

"Salty Seas" & "Family is Family"
​December 2020

"Abracadabra, Your Honor" & "I Do, I Think"
​March 2021

Ready to join?

Visit our Enroll page for all of the ITC information, enrollment forms, and more!

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."
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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

Barrier-Free is always looking for more photos to be featured on our website and Facebook page!

Please send yours to info@barrierfreemd.com.