'Youth Drama for All' Prepares for Grandness

When Sue Voiss asked her daughter, Tessa, why she hesitated to join her school's drama group in the sixth grade, the answer surprised her.

Tessa had a friend who had a physical disability and worried about falling off the stage. This became the catalyst for a new approach to theater for dozens of Los Altos and Mountain View students, who longed to express themselves artistically but never did because of their disabilities.

Youth Drama For All (YDFA), a theater group that adapts its plays to encourage disabled kids to participate, will perform Do It Grand! at Covington Elementary School on Saturday to mark its fourth year.

The program began after Voiss rewrote a familiar script for the two girls to perform at home. During rehearsals, several classmates and other children joined—including those of fellow parent, Stacy Rademacher.

"I realized this home-run show was bigger than I could handle alone," said Voiss, who along with Rademacher and other moms stepped up and helped stage a live performance with props, music and curtains erected from PVC pipe. "A total of 10 actors, nine of whom were special needs, performed for an audience of 21 in our living room."

Voiss and Rademacher act as co-directors and producers for the group, which now includes 31 children from Los Altos Elementary and Middle schools, as well as  students. In 2010, the performance drew 150 attendees. A significant percentage of the performers have special needs related to autism, ADHD or cerebral palsy.

"Some have speech or vision problems, and we adapt the program to suit their needs," said Voiss. "We also have sibling groups where one has special needs. This is a great environment for the family to participate."

She and Rademacher said their classes build camaraderie among the students. This year's show includes a melodrama, skits and singing. To prepare, students learn not only the various aspects of putting on a production—lighting, costumes, and props—but also how to communicate more effectively, use their imaginations and work as a team.

"Our group focuses on inclusion and emphasizes everyone's abilities rather than their disabilities," said Voiss. "Each actor brings [his or her] own unique and special talents to the role, and they all enjoy helping and supporting one another."

Voiss' daughter, Tessa, added that the YDFA and the stage act as a "comfort zone" for her.

For Rademacher, "Every practice is touching and inspiring for me in some way. The kids have taught me a lot about just being yourself—and having fun doing it!"

Do it Grand! will show on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. (doors open 3:10) at Covington Elementary School. 

To purchase tickets, contact Pam Joy pamjoy@allsinc.com or Sue Voiss sweetvoiss@yahoo.com (650-965-0409). Some tickets will be available at the door. Ticket Price: $5 per person (ages 4 and under free). YDFA is an inclusive drama group open to all special-ed and general-ed students. Proceeds from the show go to the Los Altos Special Education PTA.