From Dennis McCarthy, columnist for the
LA Daily News. In the picture, Steven, left, Chris, center, and Shane (no last names available) of the Born to Act Players showcase their skills during a recent production.
Before they walk on stage, the Born to Act Players close their eyes and take a few deep breaths to relax.
"Every day, every way, I am getting better and better," chant these fine actors and actresses with Down syndrome, autism and other disabilities.
"I am talented. I am creative. I am beautiful."
Then they take the stage and knock the socks off the audience. They are that good.
The group began 15 years ago on a makeshift stage set up in the back room of a North Hollywood nutrition store, and progressed over the years to the 90-seat rehearsal hall at Los Angeles Valley College.
Later this month, they're going big time. The 32-member ensemble will be playing two shows at their first real theater – the 430-seat Madrid Theater in Canoga Park.
"We've been walking around on air since we found out," says Mary Rings, the group's founder and artistic director. Her son, Casey, is one of the players.
If you've already attended one of their shows over the years, you know how inspirational and enlightening they are — tearing down stereotypes and misconceptions about the disabled community.
Four years ago, with the late John Wooden in attendance, the players performed his children's book "Inch and Miles: The Journey to Success." Wooden's great-grandson is also a member of the cast.
At the Madrid, the group will perform a musical review of songs from "Mamma Mia," "Fiddler on the Roof," "West Side Story," and "The Sound of Music."
From Dennis McCarthy, columnist for the LA Daily News. In the picture, Steven, left, Chris, center, and Shane (no last names available) of the Born to Act Players showcase their skills during a recent production.