WHAT IS CO/LAB?

CO/LAB Theater Group provides individuals with developmental disabilities a creative and social outlet through theater arts. Everyone is welcome at CO/LAB—actors in our programs utilize all kinds of communication styles and methods. Our goal is to create programming that is accessible to all.

HOW OLD ARE CO/LAB PARTICIPANTS?

CO/LAB:core has two age groups. Our Youth Ensemble is for young people, ages 10-17. All other classes are for actors ages 18+ with no upper age limit.

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?

All CO/LAB:core classes are free or low cost for all participants. Our weekly classes require a $100 deposit, which is refunded at the end of the semester. Spotlight Workshops and CO/LAB Preview have a small fee per workshop. We are committed to offering financially accessible programming; please contact us to learn more about financial accessibility for you or your actor.

WHEN AND WHERE ARE YOUR CLASSES HELD?

Our classes are typically held on weeknights and weekend days. Our CO/LAB:core programs are typically held at ART/NY Studios in two locations: Midtown Manhattan and Fort Greene, Brooklyn.

WHAT IS A TYPICAL CLASS LIKE?

Our classes are typically 90-120 minutes. Single workshops are designed to introduce participants to theater concepts and provide a space for them to share their creative voice. In our weekly classes, actors work towards creating an original show. A typical class has the following components:

  • Dance Party

  • Welcome

  • Warm Up

  • Large Group Work

  • Small Group Work

  • Reflection/Closing

Our classes incorporate many classroom tools to provide access points for all learners including visual agendas and a sensory toolbox.

HOW DO I SIGN UP?

Registration for our weekly classes opens about one month prior to each semester, which begin in September and February. Spotlight Workshops, CO/LAB Preview and and other special events have a rolling registration. If you are interested in registering please email programs@colabtheatergroup.com, call 347.989.4338, or visit www.colabtheatergroup.com.

HOW DO I KNOW IF CO/LAB IS RIGHT FOR ME OR MY POTENTIAL PARTICIPANT?

CO/LAB is a drop-off program with a closed door policy. Some specific needs CO/LAB cannot independently support include:

  • Bathroom Support—Actors are led to the bathroom, but cannot be assisted once inside.

  • Medical Support—Our staff is not authorized to administer medication to any actors.

Some actors require additional support and come to class with a designated support person or aid. If this would allow you to participate more fully, please email programs@colabtheatergroup.com to make a plan!

WHO TEACHES THE CLASSES?

Each CO/LAB class is facilitated by two Teaching Artists and supported by a group of 4-6 Supporting Artists, creating a 2:1 participant to support ratio. Teaching Artists facilitate the lesson plans, and Supporting Artists are volunteers who assist the actors and Teaching Artists inside the classroom. Teaching and Supporting Artists have a range of backgrounds, including experience in both theater and disability professions. While we approach our work from an artistic angle, we also actively train our team in best practices when working with individuals with developmental disabilities. We bring in experts to lead professional development workshops and also work closely with consultants in the field.

DO I HAVE TO COME TO CLASS EVERY WEEK?

Because our weekly classes are working toward a final performance, attendance throughout the semester is very important. We ask that actors plan to attend class on a weekly basis.

DO YOU PROVIDE TRANSPORTATION?

No, we ask that all actors arrange transportation on their own. Our spaces are accessible by ADA compliant subway stops and have accessible drop-off spots for Access-A-Ride. WHAT IF I CAN’T GET TO YOUR LOCATION? Through our CO/LAB:connect program, we provide off-site programming where we send a team of Teaching and Supporting Artists to a partner’s facility to conduct our programming there. We partner with day habilitation programs, residence homes, schools, cultural organizations, other non-profits, and community centers. For more information about our CO/LAB:connect program please contact programs@colabtheatergroup.com.

CAN I VISIT A CLASS TO SEE IF IT IS RIGHT FOR ME?

Yes! Email programs@colabtheatergroup.com to ask about visiting.