Independence Starts Here: A Festival of Disability Arts and Culture
Independence Starts Here: A Festival of Disability Arts and Culture is a festival in Greater Philadelphia of contemporary and classic art that includes the work of professional and community artists with disabilities or features work that is inspired by the experience of disability. The festival also celebrates the work of leaders in the disability and cultural communities to increase accessibility in Greater Philadelphia and highlights organizations who offer accessibility on a regular basis and those who are working to create accessibility for the first time.
The Festival includes performances of theatre, music, dance, comedy and magic; readings of poetry, plays and other literary genres; historical, cultural and visual art exhibits; lectures and discussions; workshops; film series and the unveiling of a major new mural. Events run from October 18 through November 20, 2007 with a major Opening Ceremony at the Perelman Theatre in the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts featuring Academy Award winning actress Marlee Matlin as Emcee with introductory remarks by Honorary Co-Chair Ambassador Jean Kennedy Smith, Founder of VSA arts, and an exciting line-up of nationally and internationally known performers with disabilities.