Inclusive Theater of WNY (ITOWNY)’s The Voices Project was created in 2017 to empower those from marginalized groups to share the stories that are important to them; not the stories that others from the outside of these groups think should be told. By sharing these stories, lives change for the better; important conversations take place, challenges and triumphs are shared, and
communities that are nurturing and supportive are built and thrive.

The inaugural ITOWNY Voices Project, My Story: An Evening of Personal Narratives, took place in November 2017 at Hallwalls Performing Arts Center. The cast of this event were people from varied backgrounds and levels of experience who didn’t know each other prior to their participation for this event. Each person, with the support of their fellow castmates, ITOWNY, and the Self-Advocacy Association of NYS (SANYS), wrote a story that they wanted
to share with an audience. Through workshopping and discussion, scripts were created, and each participant told their story. The topics ranged from misconceptions of persons with disabilities, dating, sexuality, physical health, and the arts. Since the event took place, the participants have continued to encourage and support one another through other ITOWNY events such as writing groups, acting and improvisation classes, and full-length theatrical productions.

Conversations were held that supported the continuation of The Voices Project. The initial planning stages of the next event were underway when COVID abruptly interrupted our lives and to our dismay, the event was ultimately canceled. During the pandemic, however, The Voices Project continued differently, through virtual discussions on the importance of inclusion in the arts particularly for persons with disabilities and people of color.

The Voices Project has returned in-person and virtually, this time with students of varying grade levels and persons from diverse backgrounds mentoring and supporting each other by way of studying Shakespearean works. Additionally, we have started an online space for works on topics such as Compassion and Inspiration. Moving forward, we will publish these works as well as come together for Stories by Fire Light, where we will share stories around a campfire.

We hope you will consider joining us for one (or all!) of our events. For more information, please check our website or drop us a line at thevoicesproject2023@gmail.com.