American Voices – Spirit of Revolution: Soft Opening at The Broad Stage in Santa Monica is Inclusive for Performers with Disabilities

"First sound. First light. First voice." With those words, the vision of The Broad Stage transformed into a reality.

The first audiences have experienced an amazing launch of the $45 million Eli and Edythe Broad Stage at Santa Monica College Performing Arts Center.

From the moment the theatre went dark and the lights brightened, actress Teal Sherer was the first performer to roll onto stage in her wheelchair, revealing the intent of a theatre that is inclusive for everyone, including people with disabilities.

"This is a step in the right direction for 'Performers With Disabilities'. The fact that world renown actor Dustin Hoffman and the Broad Theatre, lead by the magnificent director, Dale Franzen, sought out to cast an actor with disability is a powerful message," Sherer explained. "It was a honor to work with such talented actors and musicians, and to be a part of such a heart-felt and relevant production - especially with the upcoming elections."

While there were many messages in the show, "American Voices – Spirit of Revolution" was focused on our founding fathers, origins of the Constitution, Bill of Rights, Declaration of Independence and freedom of speech. The stage came to life as historical messages and performances brought tears to many eyes. With impressive acoustics, the design is clearly state-of-the-art, offering a full theatre experience.

One woman exiting the theatre after the show said, "That was wonderful. It's exactly what this theatre was meant to be."

Moving and emotional, this is one show that should be seen in every school across this nation. "American Voices - Spirit of Revolution" is an education for every age.

A one-day only event, the performance will be broadcast on KUSC, 91.5 FM, Saturday, September 27, 2008, at 10 pm.

The stage reading featured incredible actors: Dustin Hoffman, James Cromwell, Annette Bening, Rosario Dawson, Abdoulaye N'Gom, Richard Schiff, Elisa Bocanegra, Nate Parker, Teal Sherer, Ben Acland, Michele B. Chan, Wade Contreras and Vanessa Villanueva.

The group of performers was extremely diverse, reminding the audience that everyone has a voice and should be heard. No voice should be silenced through censorship or control.

Throughout the show, Conductor Ken Nagano helped reflect the origins of American values and its challenges. Nagano, Conductor of the Montreal Symphony Orchestra and Music Director of the Bavarian State Opera, selected excerpts from works by American Composer Charles Ives for chamber orchestra interwoven with spoken text read by the actors. The result was moving and captivating.

The design of The Broad Stage is phenomenal. The 499-seat theatre seems intimate for its size and includes orchestra, balcony and side box seating. Every seat is a great seat at The Broad Stage.

Most importantly, creating an inclusive atmosphere, the Eli and Edythe Broad Stage is completely handicap accessible. Assisted Listening Devises are also available at the Box Office. Beautifully designed by architect Renzo Zecchetto, the theatre is accessible for everyone to enjoy musicals, operas, theatre, music and dance.

With actor Dustin Hoffman as Chair of the Artistic Advisory Board at The Broad Stage, this is a theatre that will make a difference. The reality of The Broad Stage is a huge step forward for theatre lovers and the entire Westside theatre community.

The Eli and Edythe Broad Stage is located at 1310 11th Street, Santa Monica, California. For more information visit www.thebroadstage.com.

For more information on performers with disabilities visit www.performerswithdisabilities.com.

Pictured: Actor Dustin Hoffman and Actress Teal Sherer at The Broad Stage in Santa Monica after the performance of "American Voices - Spirit of Revolution."

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