March is a big month for Redhouse Arts Center and Arc of Onondaga; they’re celebrating 12 years of collaboration with their latest production, Big Fish.
Family Times recently talked to Marguerite Mitchell, Redhouse’s director of education, about how the partnership has grown over the years and the impact it continues to have on the participants.
This interview was edited for clarity.
1. What was the inspiration behind the partnership between Redhouse Arts Center and Arc of Onondaga?
Creating artistic opportunity is at the root of all that Redhouse does. The inspiration behind the partnership was a shared desire to create a more inclusive and accessible community. Redhouse aims to provide opportunities for people from all backgrounds to experience the arts, have a voice, and be a part of sharing stories. By working together, both organizations have fostered creativity, self-expression, and personal growth for all of the individuals involved—mentors and mentees alike. This partnership was motivated by the belief in the transformative power of art, as well as the need to build empathy, understanding, and equality in our community.
How has it evolved over the years?
The partnership first began in 2013 and grew exponentially into 2014. Since then, the partnership has gone from engaging a handful of individuals to a cast of 40+ people annually. This collaboration has broken down barriers, ensuring that people with disabilities are seen by the community at large as active members—they have skills, the ability to create art and tell stories, and form meaningful friendships and working relationships. When here at Redhouse, they are given the opportunity to be recognized for their talents and contributions, both personal and professional.
2. How do you choose a production each year?
Each year, we choose a production that we feel is an ensemble piece that also embodies the sense of community, telling a story that ultimately showcases what it means to be human. This year’s production of Big Fish is about community, telling stories, and how the stories that we use define our identities.
3. How do the artists from both organizations collaborate during rehearsals and performances?
The process is a truly inclusive one. Arc artists are cast alongside professional actors and university students, all participating in the process as professional performers. Throughout rehearsals and performances, everyone supports one another, learns from one another, and creates a fully staged production that is representative of the community. Everyone is a mentor to one another in this sense. We have had mentor actors, directors, and community participants all leave the process saying openly, “I thought I was going to be a part of this to teach them, but they taught me more than I taught them.”
4. Can you describe the impact the partnership has had on the individuals involved—and the community?
The list is endless. Participants are given a platform to showcase their talents and gain a sense of belonging, acceptance, and confidence. We are able to break stereotypes about what people with disabilities can achieve. Their involvement in a production helps highlight their unique abilities, allowing them to gain recognition and respect from peers and the broader community. It challenges misconceptions and encourages the community to view people through the lens of ability. We aim to shift the narrative that these individuals are not ‘recipients of services’ but are active and successful participants in cultural and artistic endeavors.
As members of the community attend and witness the successes of these Arc artists, I hope it causes a ripple effect. That our community may be more likely to advocate for other inclusive initiatives or inspire other organizations, schools, and businesses to adopt inclusive practices, ultimately fostering a more supportive environment for people of all abilities.
5. Is there anything else you would like Family Times readers to know?
I hope the entire community comes out to engage with the show on March 21, 22, and 23. For more information, you can visit theredhouse.org or call (315) 362-2785.
