The Arc NCR to Showcase All Abilities at Sixth Annual Sprout Fest

The Arc Northern Chesapeake Region (The Arc NCR) will host the sixth annual Sprout Film & Art Festival on Wednesday, November 14, 2018 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Water’s Edge Events Center (4687 Millennium Drive) in Belcamp, MD. The event, which celebrates the talents of people with all abilities, will begin with the opportunity to browse and purchase beautiful art supplied by local Harford County artists while enjoying light refreshments. Guests will then be entertained by short films from the renowned NYC company, Sprout. Top sponsors include Harford Mutual Insurance, Ravens Nest No. 1 of Harford County and M&T Bank.

“Lewis #1,” submitted by Ben Staten of Havre de Grace, is just one of the pieces of artwork to be displayed at this year’s festival.

Attendees will have the unique opportunity to experience an intimate glimpse into the lives of people with differing abilities with films that spark joy, sadness, laughter and hope. This year’s line-up includes “SurREALITY,” directed by Meg Vatterott, Huong Troung, Marta Payne and Olivia Liu, which features a gentleman named Anand. At the age of 57, Anand’s Asperger’s diagnosis brought a sense of validation with a lingering sadness. Although the loneliness and isolation felt throughout his whole life will never fade, his surreal and often misunderstood experiences now have binding reasons.

“Being Seen,” directed by Paul Zehrer, is a combination of funny, acerbic, and heart-wrenching; these people’s candid and articulate self-awareness quickly shatter preconceptions of the disabled. Rather than defining themselves by their diagnosis, individuals (young and old) strive to create meaning, meet adversity and dream of their futures.

In “Corey the Warrior,” directed by Isabel Darling and filmed in Narooma, NSW, Australia, Corey tells the story of his life as an artist living with a brain injury. From doctors predicting he would not be able to do anything to painting and living a fulfilling life with only one functioning hand, Corey explains, “I can do anything.”

Tickets are available for $12 per person online at www.arcncr.org or by calling 410-836-7177. Ticket includes light refreshments and a cash bar will be available. All proceeds benefit the services provided by The Arc NCR for individuals with differing abilities. To learn more about the Sprout Film & Art Festival, contact Patti Christopher, Events & Volunteer Coordinator, at 410-836-7177, or pchristopher@arcncr.org.