The Same Sky Project

WHAT MATTERS Warren
Watch this video to learn about “The Same Sky Project,” a wonderful program that Warren County and Skyline Middle Schoolers experienced today! Meet writers and co-stars of “Abira and the Mountain,” 22 year old Amy (who was born with cerebral palsy) and Ryan, aged 22 (who has high functioning autism). Warren County Public Schools Special Services Director, Michael E. Hirsch, WCPS Music Therapist, Allyson Gillispie and Skyline High School Principal, Bobby Johnston discuss the initiative. Angelle Cook (Director of Programs and Drama Therapist) introduces the performance, sponsored by the Middleburg nonprofit, A PLACE TO BE.

The project is a traveling group of performers who advocate for and promote messages of empathy, love, inclusion, acceptance and inspiration through music and performance. According to their website, the initiative was created by members of A Place To Be in 2011 as a way to develop a method of understanding for individuals who may be deemed “different” from society. Writer Amy Stone was 15 at the time and thought there should be a group of actors with challenges that would teach empathy and compassion through theater and music. This powerful project helps us realize that we are more than just our labels.”

“Abira and the Mountain,” A Place To Be’s newest original family production focusing on acceptance, empathy and love, was written by Amy and collaborator Ryan Perry. The fall tour of the production runs from October – November 2018 and is made possible by the support of the Virts Miller Foundation. Contact Sierra Roberts at sierra@apalcetobeva.org or (540) 687-6740 for information about booking a show.

A PLACE TO BE’s vision is “to be an influential therapeutic arts organization that leads the way in offering unique performance based music therapy programs while creating an inclusive society where everyone is seen as equal and valuable with their unique gifts and challenges.”  Their mission is “Helping people face, navigate, and overcome life’s challenges using clinically based practices of music therapy and expressive arts therapy.”

Learn more, volunteer or donate at http://www.aplacetobeva.org/

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