# data[].attributes.headline
Why Accessibility is Important in Theatre

# data[].attributes.subject
Why Accessibility is Important in Theatre

# data[].attributes.body
We exist in a world filled with disability yet theatres continue to deny disabled people an equal place at the table. Assistive technology is more advanced than ever and there are some basic services theatres should be expected to provide. The world can only benefit from a bigger representation of disability. Too many theatres value their product over their process and that is only hurting actors and limiting the experience for the audience. Theatre is supposed to be a reflection of the world around us and a full cast of able-bodied neurotypical actors does not reflect that.

# data[].attributes.body
PHAMALy Theatre Company is a Colorado based company founded in 1989. The founders consisted of five college students all living with disabilities. They became frustrated with the lack of theatrical opportunities for disabled people, so they started their own company. PHAMALy is dedicated to exclusively featuring actors with disabilities, whether they be physical, cognitive, or emotional.

# data[].attributes.body
My peers continue to inspire and push me everyday. It is comforting to work with other artists who understand your struggles and can appreciate your successes.

# data[].attributes.body
My personal artwork is currently being inspired by botany as well as other aspects of nature. I also really enjoy George Seurat's work and the pointillism that he uses. My color scheme is leaning toward cool and earthy tones. I am also inspired to use mediums I am not as familiar with such as watercolor or clay.

# data[].attributes.body
I am currently being influenced by a lot of the larger pieces of artwork I see around Austin. I love that it can be found in high traffic areas so that lots of people get to enjoy it. This high accessibility comes with drawbacks such as graffiti. Graffiti itself is an art form but it is disrespectful to use it to cover up another artist's work.

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
i would like to get better at rock climbing

# data[].attributes.body
Outside of my career I would like to pick up other hobbies. I would like to own a plant or animal that stays alive. I would like to find enjoyment doing things outside and being active. I would like to have a diverse circle of people who I trust, and Id like to feel like I've made an impact.

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
If I have enough money I'd like to live in New York.

# data[].attributes.body
I have enjoyed collaborating with people at UT because I often feel safe and included. I worked on a film project recently where I worked with several people who were more experienced than me which was intimidating. However my coworkers gave me the support I needed and I learned a lot in the process.

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
Film project where there was good collaboration

# data[].attributes.body
i decided to pursue scenic design early on in my high school career however lots of uncertainties came with being an artist. The industry is competitive and I would not be guaranteed consistent employment. However I am glad I overcame these anxieties and I am grateful for the opportunities that UT has presented me. I have been able to gain so much experience and connections that are promising for my future. I am currently focused on honing my skills and learning the most I can from my fellow artists. I am employed at TPA as a fabrication studios assistant and will probably continue to work there throughout my time at UT. I plan to stay in Austin working on productions until another opportunity arises in another city.

# data[].attributes.body
My high school experience with collaboration was very limited. I worked with my technical director on projects however I did not collaborate with the other students in my class. The Covid-19 pandemic turned my collaboration down to zero and I worked independently for a while because I didn’t understand how to go about working with others safely in such extenuating circumstances. Performance as a Public Practice was the class that helped me open my eyes to all the different ways in which people can collaborate.   Trust, honesty, and vulnerability are the foundation of the collaborative space. As soon as the rehearsal space becomes unsafe or inaccessible collaboration becomes compromised. Each member of the collaborative space must also uphold certain values. Giving credit, being respectful, allowing space for others to share, and checking in on an artist's well-being are all examples of these values.

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
large spider wall art at local climbing gym

# data[].attributes.headline
People & Artists That Have Inspired Me                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

# data[].attributes.subject
People & Artists That Have Inspired Me                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

# data[].attributes.body
My grandfather is the first artist to inspire me. He gave me my first interactions with paint and the art studio setting. He has such a creative mind and I have never seen him without a project to work on. Observing him influenced my artistic style, especially my doodles.

# data[].attributes.body
Marc Duncan took on the role of being my technical director and mentor over my four years in high school. He is the reason I stayed in tech and continued on to pursue it professionally. He has been there for all my creative successes and failures. I hope I continue to make him proud.

# data[].attributes.attachment_caption
Gustav Klimt-collage is a piece of digital artwork by Daniela Constantinescu

# data[].attributes.body
Gustav Klimt's artwork has inspired me for years. I enjoy the color schemes he uses, the color blocking, and painting style he uses. I have worked before to make art inspired by him.