Indiana Dance Program Empowers Dancers with Disabilities

In Fishers, Indiana, the Dance Abilities program at the Academy of Dance Arts is providing a unique space for individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities to connect and express themselves through dance. Founded by Claire Graham, the program has evolved from a summer camp for eight children into year-round classes serving approximately 20 participants.

Dance Abilities offers specialized classes for various age groups, including toddlers, children, teenagers, and adults. Graham, who holds a degree in dance and a master's in recreational therapy, focuses on creating a supportive environment where participants can feel challenged and confident, rather than striving for technical perfection. "I’m not looking for perfection of position and not looking for a perfect performance," Graham said. "Only a performance that they can feel confident about."

Accommodations at Dance Abilities include adapting the pace of instruction, utilizing more visual cues over verbal directions, and employing teacher assistants who can physically guide students. For individuals with Down syndrome, who may have natural flexibility but less muscle tone, Graham emphasizes exercises to build strength. Students with autism often require more assistance with stretching.

Nicole Vester’s son, Finn, who has autism and Down syndrome, found a suitable avenue for expression in Dance Abilities after other activities proved challenging. "Claire teaches him at his level. She teaches him a little slower. She teaches him a couple more extra times. And he feels proud and he feels accomplished and he feels like he’s part of a group," Vester said. She notes that these experiences build her son's confidence, preparing him to engage with the wider world.

Another participant, Abigail MacGregor, who has Down syndrome, enjoys dancing through obstacle courses and showcasing new moves. "I just love dance," MacGregor said. "The best thing of dance is having fun, being with all my dance crew."

Tucker McGarrell, 13, also has Down syndrome and enthusiastically attends his dance classes. His mother, Amanda McGarrell, appreciates that the program is something Tucker genuinely enjoys, distinct from therapeutic appointments. "It’s just such a huge thing that Tucker’s given a space and a stage to be himself and get to be with friends and learn new things," she said. "It just like fills me with joy knowing that he’s getting to do something that he loves too just like typical kids do."

Graham believes that with the opportunity to succeed and with instruction tailored to their individual needs, all participants can achieve growth. "If you give them the chance to succeed and meet them where they are, they can 100% grow," she stated. The smiles and declarations of accomplishment from her students are the program's greatest measure of success.