Greetings Friends!
Chris has had the opportunity to work with a cool group of people this year. Since being selected in Apri as part of the Improvaneers, we have spent most Tuesday evenings traveling to Akron for Improv class. There, Chris and the eight other cast members with Down syndrome are developing the skills needed to work together as an Improv Troupe. Watch the video to see four of them in action at a Gigi's Playhouse fundraiser.
Stand Up For Downs has fully supported this project financially. All the donations to this page will support SUFD's Improvaneers program.
When people with Down syndrome share their talents, they inspire others to shine themselves. Just ask Baker Mayfield or the Cowboy's Cheerleaders!!
Thanks so much,
Chris and Andy
For more on SUFD, see below. For even more, check out the links!!
More About Stand Up For Downs:
SUFD was created in 2013 with the goal of enhancing the lives of those with Down syndrome through humor.
In 2017, we had a new idea! We would use comedy, or specifically, improvisation to build skills in those with Down syndrome that could greatly improve workplace and social opportunities.
We then cast the WORLD'S FIRST ALL-DS IMPROV TROUPE - THE IMPROVANEERS! We auditioned over 25 individuals and cast a group of 10 amazing pioneers who take a 2 hour class once per week with us at Weathervane Theatre in Akron.
We will continue to teach this group for a full year, then put on a BIG show for the general public.
The overall goal is to take everything we have learned and studied throughout this program and write the "curriculum" for this so that other Down syndrome organizations around the country can benefit from improvisation.
After 5 years of rasing money and giving it away to incredible and worthy organizations, we now find ourselves in need of funds to continue our exciting program. So how will we use the money:
- Writing, printing, publishing the book
- Cost for rehearsal space and paying of director and part-time staff
- Promotional costs and advertising
- Travel costs for performances
- Documentary and production costs
- Other costs to continue running the charity
We truly hope you consider helping us out financially in any way you are able as we continue to grow and build this incredible program!
If you'd like to see more on this program and THE IMPROVANEERS, ...CLICK HERE!
