Theatre by the blind
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​Theatre by the Blind, the country’s only theatre troupe composed entirely of blind actors, helps blind and visually impaired individuals become self-sufficient using theatre-based programs and original performances to help them to successfully navigate through today’s society. Theatre by the Blind provides participants with a constructive and creative forum to confront their challenges while informing the public, raising awareness, and changing perceptions about the capabilities of the blind. These remarkable individuals create and perform original theatrical works that empower and inspire program participants and audiences alike.

Each new program lasts approximately 6 months from start to finish. Participants meet twice a week for 3 – 4 hours at a time in order to conceive the story and their characters, learn their lines, and rehearse the show. Scripts can be translated and printed into Braille, but often the actors choose to tape-record their lines to practice at home. During rehearsals, a series of soft floor mats are pieced together to create a map of the stage that aids the actors in navigating the stage layout and memorizing the location of different set pieces. After months of rehearsal each show culminates with 2 – 3 weeks of performances at The Blue Door, the theatrical home of ArtsUP! LA.

Greg Shane

Program Lead

Greg Shane, Artistic Director of CRE Outreach, received his B.A. in theatre from Tulane University and his M.A. in Educational Theatre from the Steinhardt School at NYU. Since he began teaching theatre in 2003, Greg has traveled all over the world bringing performing arts and arts therapy programs to various populations in cities including London, Dublin, Puerto Rico, and Brazil. Greg’s work helps at-risk youth, military veterans, prisoners, mentally challenged individuals, the homeless, and the visually impaired. Blind in his right eye, Greg’s personal connection and sensitivity towards the challenges of the visually impaired lend a unique perspective to his work.
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