Think DIFFERENTLY In The Arts Awarded To SRO PLUS
On October 2, 2024, In Flight, Inc. and Standing Room Only Theater Company (SRO) proudly accepted the Think DIFFERENTLY in the Arts Award from The Arts Mid-Hudson 38th Annual County Executive’s Art Awards for our collaborative SRO PLUS Theater program. As a result, this award recognizes our efforts to create an inclusive and empowering environment where people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) can thrive in the performing arts.
How SRO PLUS Came Together
SRO PLUS, which stands for “Performing, Learning, United for Success,” is a unique educational theater program launched in 2021. Initially, the idea for this program was born when Dan and Eileen Sclafani of SRO were discussing with Jennifer Wells and Sarah Green of In Flight how they could fill a gap in the local arts community by offering theater classes for individuals with I/DD. Consequently, their shared vision of inclusivity, creativity, and fun led to the creation of SRO PLUS, which has since grown exponentially through the generous support of donors and enthusiastic participants.
What makes SRO PLUS so special is its open-door policy: while it focuses on supporting individuals with I/DD, it is inclusive of all individuals in the community. This program not only provides a platform for people of all abilities to engage in the arts but also fosters a sense of belonging, builds confidence, and allows participants to explore their talents.
What the Future Holds
In its three years, SRO PLUS has grown significantly, preparing participants for full productions. Last year, the program celebrated the amazing success of its first full production, Finding Nemo, which captivated audiences and showcased the incredible talents of our participants. Additionally, this year’s program is already underway, gearing up for an exciting performance of Seussical, where beloved Dr. Seuss characters will be brought to life on stage, continuing to highlight the creativity and passion of our diverse cast.
About Standing Room Only Theater Company
Standing Room Only Theater Company has been a beacon of artistic excellence in Dutchess County for nearly two decades. Owned and operated by Eileen and Dan Sclafani, both of whom are accomplished union actors, SRO is known for offering a safe, nurturing environment where individuals can be their true selves, make lifelong friendships, and develop self-confidence through the performing arts.
A Testament to Powerful Collaborations
The Think DIFFERENTLY in the Arts Award is a testament to the success of this powerful collaboration. In addition, accepting the award on behalf of In Flight, Inc. and SRO were the four creators of SRO PLUS—Dan and Eileen Sclafani, Jennifer Wells, and Sarah Green—alongside Matthew G. Bateman, CEO of In Flight, Inc. Additionally, alongside them were three proud participants of the program – Brian, Trevon, and Hudson – with Jill Scutt, a dedicated Med-Transporter for In Flight, who has been instrumental in ensuring that individuals in our Residential Program can attend rehearsals and performances.
Together, In Flight and SRO have built a theater program that not only celebrates the arts but also champions inclusivity and empowers individuals with I/DD to shine. We look forward to many more years of creativity, collaboration, and success with SRO PLUS!
