Performing Arts Program Founded by The Campizondo Foundation: Therapeutic Arts Promote Understanding of Developmental Disabilities
Drums thumping, tambourines jingling, and maracas chiming to a catchy tune. Toes tapping to the beat. Belting out the lyrics to a song. Sharing the spotlight and taking turns to shine. This is what you will see at a DDI Performing Arts Program session. However, the benefits of this program reach far beyond the performance.
Enhanced fine motor skills and communication, boosted self-confidence, socialization, and reduced anxiety are just a few of the therapeutic benefits that have carried over into the daily lives of over 90 adults and children with autism and other developmental disabilities who participated in the program last year during its inaugural year.
In 2022, the opportunity arose to revive a performing arts activity at DDI that had been paused due to COVID. According to Rob Rosen, longtime champion of DDI, “It was a natural choice to propose a performing arts program to my dear friends, Hector Elizondo and Carolee Campbell of the Campizondo Foundation, given their extensive experience in acting and the arts, coupled with their strong sense of civic duty.”
With the Campizondo Foundation’s support, DDI’s Performing Arts Program was launched. Sherry McKeown, Director of Adult Day Services at DDI, shared, "Our first step was hiring someone to oversee the program. We brought on Teddy Christman, a classical music composer and the creator of the Christman Opera Company. Teddy's passion for music and acting is inspiring, and it's evident in the enthusiastic response from our adults and children in the program."
Teddy expresses, "I am thrilled to share my lifelong love for the arts and observe it through the eyes of others. Each participant receives a distinct experience from the program. The program has expanded beyond expectations. With sessions at 11 DDI sites every week, in November 2023, the program hosted its first live performance at the local high school, welcoming friends, family, and the community. This year, the program continues to expand, with two shows planned – one for DDI children and another for adults.”
"We are delighted to introduce this therapeutic arts program to individuals of all ages at DDI. Through public showcases and collaborations with local artists performing alongside DDI participants, this initiative extends into the community, fostering awareness and understanding of individuals with developmental disabilities." Hector Elizondo and Carolee Campbell.
Due to the success of the Performing Arts program's first year, interest has surged within DDI, a non-profit organization dedicated to serving over 1,500 individuals. In 2024, efforts are underway to expand the program to accommodate every individual who has a desire to take part in this remarkable initiative.
DDI would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the Campizondo Foundation and Rob Rosen for expanding therapeutic music and performing arts at DDI.