Youth Drama For All is Ready for 'Grandness'

Four years ago, Sue Voiss asked her daughter, Tessa, why she was hesitant to join her school's drama group in the sixth grade.

Her answer was poignant: That her physically disabled friend was nervous about falling off the stage. 

Not at Youth Drama For All. On Saturday afternoon, YDFA  performs Do It Grand! at Covington Elementary School, marking its fourth successful year.

"Each actor brings (his or her) own unique and special talents to the role, and they all enjoy helping and supporting one another."

Tessa's answer was the catalyst for this homegrown drama group, a new avenue for expression for dozens of Los Altos and Mountain View students who longed to express themselves artistically but never had the right outlet.

It started in Voiss' living room, just for the two girls. She decided to rewrite a familiar script for them to perform at home. During rehearsals, several classmates and other children joined—including those of fellow parent Stacy Rademacher.

 "I realized this home-run show was bigger than I could handle alone," says Voiss. "A couple other moms stepped up and were the stage crew for the live performance. We had curtains erected with PVC pipe, props, and music. A total of 10 actors, nine of whom were special needs, performed for an audience of 21 in our living room."

Voiss and Rademacher act as co-directors and producers for the group, which now includes 31 children from Los Altos elementary and middle schools, as well as Mountain View High School students. In 2010, the performance drew 150 attendees. A significant percentage of the performers have special needs related to autism, ADHD or cerebral palsy.

"Some have speech or vision problems, and we adapt the program to suit their needs," says Voiss. "We also have sibling groups where one has special needs. This is a great environment for the family to participate."

She and Rademacher say their classes build camaraderie among the students. This year's show includes a melodrama, skits and singing. To prepare, students learn not only the various aspects of putting on a production (lighting, costumes and props) but also how to communicate more effectively, use their imaginations and work as a team.

Voiss' daughter, Tess, says that the YDFA and the stage act as a "comfort zone" for her.

"Our group focuses on inclusion and emphasizes everyone's abilities rather than their disabilities," Voiss said. 

And as Rademacher said, "Every practice is touching and inspiring for me in some way. The kids have taught me a lot about just being yourself—and having fun doing it!"

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Do it Grand! will show on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. (doors open 3:10 p.m.) at Covington Elementary School.

To purchase tickets, contact Pam Joy pamjoy@allsinc.com or Sue Voiss sweetvoiss@yahoo.com (650-965-0409). Some tickets available at the door. Ticket Price: $5 per person (age 4 and under is free). YDFA is an inclusive drama group open to all special-ed and general-ed students. Proceeds from the show go to the Los Altos Special Education PTA.