Born To Act Players (BTAP) by Radha Botofasina

For over 45 years, I have mentored individuals with diverse abilities. To enhance my expertise, I completed a professional development workshops and certification programs, including the Social Emotional Arts program at UCLA and the VAPA Teaching Artists program sponsored by the LA Music Center.

For a year, I volunteered at Agoura High School, in Los Angeles County, in a special education class, where I taught music, introducing severely handicapped students to musical instruments like the harp, percussion, and keyboards. Through these experiences, I developed a deep understanding of the unique needs and abilities of individuals with diverse needs.

In 2009, I participated in an 8-day vocal workshop in Warsaw, Poland, with an American pianist on the autism spectrum. In 2017, I organized a Peace and Unity Concert of my original compositions in the Dominican Republic with 28 members of the National Orchestra, special needs individuals, and orphans. An interpretive dancer with Down’s Syndrome was featured. These experiences broadened my perspective and deepened my commitment to promoting inclusivity and creativity for individuals with special abilities.

The BTAP project speaks to my heart for the special needs population to be lifted and seen. My goal is to meet them where they are, listen, and create an experience that is unique to their personalities, while incorporating American Sign Language (ASL), interpretive movement, and singing. I understand the importance of artistic expression for individuals with special abilities because my daughter, Ranjani Devi Reyes has special abilities. Artistic expression is an innate part of her development and expression. I see how much joy and fulfillment she experiences when she creates and expresses herself through music and dance.

Our collaboration of acting workshops with voice and music provides opportunities for individuals like my daughter with special abilities. Participants explore their creativity and showcase their talents in a safe and inclusive environment. By incorporating ASL, interpretive movement, singing, and other art forms, we create a unique and personalized experience for each participant.

I facilitate this project because of the significant need for inclusion and accessibility to creative spaces for individuals with special abilities. Many face barriers to traditional forms of art expression. Spaces where individuals of all abilities come together enable them to connect and showcase their talents, thereby promoting inclusivity and acceptance in society.

BTAP is a collaboration that proves that everyone can express themselves, creatively, regardless of their abilities. BTAP empowers them to explore their creativity and showcase their talents. The compelling therapeutic and educational components impact participants, who develop creative expression, while enhancing their communication, self-expression, and socialization skills. They connect with others with similar abilities, experiences, and interests. This sense of community and belonging impacts their mental health and wellbeing.

In the final performance, they showcase their talents and abilities to a wider audience, raising awareness about the power of inclusive and accessible creative spaces. The performance provides a platform for them to challenge negative stereotypes and break down barriers to fully participate in society. The program impacts the community-at-large by raising awareness and challenging negative stereotypes. The participants love all genres of music, especially Bob Marley’s Exodus, Movement of Jah’s People.