If this is the first time you’ve heard about Phame Academy then you’re about to learn about a group that can change the way you see people with disabilities.  Phame (Pacific Handicapped Artists, Musicians, and Entertainers) was founded in 1984 by Carol Stady.  Carol’s experience with Special Olympics made her wonder why there was no equivalent organization for the arts.  She didn’t wonder long, but decided to found her own group instead and Phame was born.  26 years later, Phame is the still the only group in the country offering a full arts and theater curriculum for people with developmental disabilities.

The best way to learn about Phame is to go to one of their performances, whether it’s a choir performance at the Grotto or Zoo, or one of their yearly musical theater productions.  Here’s a couple other ways to learn about them in the meantime (and please remember, non-profit groups like Phame can always put your financial and personal support to good use)

Phame’s newest production, “Grease”, hits the stage Saturday, June 18th at 7pm,  and Sunday, June 19th at 2pm.  Tickets are available at Phame’s online box office.

Phame’s Website has all the details, upcoming events, ways to support the organization, and much more.  You can also follow them on Facebook and Twitter.

An 11-minute video by Brian Manley (the video is also on Phame’s website) gives you a good look at the students, staff, and programs of Phame.

We’ve written a couple articles for our newsletter about Phame.  The June 2010 article announced the year’s performance of Once Upon A Mattress, and the July 2010 article was a followup about the evening.

And finally, click here if you’d like to hear the Phame radio spot that we currently have running.

On behalf of all the students, staff, parents, friends, and supporters of Phame Academy, we’d like to thank you for your interest and we look forward to seeing you at the next show!