A Symphony of Inclusion: Abilities Dance Boston's Upcoming Musical Showcase

A Night to Remember: The Music of Abilities Dance Boston

Imagine a stage where every note played and every movement performed tells a story of empowerment, inclusion, and artistic innovation. This is the vision of Abilities Dance Boston, a beacon of creativity and advocacy in the Greater Boston arts scene. On a chilly November evening, the spotlight will shine on this remarkable organization as they present The Music of Abilities Dance Boston concert at Hibernian Hall in Roxbury. Scheduled for 8:00 p.m. on Friday, November 7th, this event promises to be a celebration of the power of music to unite, inspire, and break down barriers.

The concert will showcase about 10 original compositions, brought to life by a 13-piece live orchestral ensemble under the baton of Music Director Andrew Choe. These pieces, crafted by the talented Robert Gross, Erin Rogers, and Choe himself, were originally composed to accompany the company's dance performances. Now, for the first time, they will be performed together, weaving a tapestry of sound that speaks volumes about the ability of art to challenge ableism and champion accessibility.

Championing Diversity and Accessibility

Ellice Patterson, the visionary Founder and Executive Director of Abilities Dance Boston, sees this concert as more than just an evening of music. It's a platform to amplify the voices of composers and musicians with disabilities, showcasing their extraordinary contributions to the arts. Patterson believes that these original compositions do more than accompany dance; they serve as a vehicle for reimagining artistry and access, where everyone's voice is heard and valued.

To ensure that everyone can enjoy this groundbreaking event, the concert will offer ASL interpretation, making it accessible to audience members who are deaf or hard of hearing. Furthermore, in a move that underscores the organization’s commitment to inclusivity, tickets are available on a sliding scale, with options for free and reduced prices, ensuring that financial barriers don't prevent anyone from experiencing the magic of the evening.

More Than Just a Dance Company

Since its inception in 2017, Abilities Dance Boston has been at the forefront of redefining what the performing arts can be. With a dual focus on their performing company and community engagement programs, they reach around 5,000 students and audience members each year, spreading messages of disability justice and artistic equality. Their efforts have not gone unnoticed, earning them several prestigious awards, including the 2020 MA Cultural Council UP Award for achievements in accessibility and the 2023 Boston Cultural Council Equity Award for their commitment to equity in the arts.

As Abilities Dance Boston prepares for this memorable night, it's clear that the concert is more than just a showcase; it's a statement. A statement that art has the power to transform, to challenge the status quo, and to create a world where all are welcome to express themselves. This is a celebration not just of music, but of the spirit of inclusion that drives every note, every dance, and every moment of the Abilities Dance Boston experience.

For those looking to be part of this transformative evening, tickets are available for purchase here. Whether you're a long-time supporter or new to the world of inclusive arts, The Music of Abilities Dance Boston concert is an opportunity to witness the beauty of what happens when everyone's voice is heard and celebrated. Let's come together and be part of a movement that's not just about performing arts, but about performing change.