From Alison Neuman - Artistic Director’s Message
I have been lucky to be a part of the CRIPSiE community for the past fifteen years as an artist, learner, choreographer, and in a variety of arts administrative positions. CRIPSiE gave me a place where my chronic illnesses, disability and use of a wheelchair were just a part of who I was and understood. At the same time, my access needs, abilities, individuality, and passions were supported, seen and celebrated.
The transition from an artist and choreographer to arts administrator to artistic director has enabled me to leverage my passion for the arts, access support, and explore how to strike a balance between the administrative side and build seasons to grow access and opportunities, all while learning and advocating for our artists and facilitators.
My vision is to build on the foundations of access, celebrate the value of lived experience, work with artists and facilitators to create our definition of professionalism, all while creating inclusive, accepting, and welcoming spaces that CRIPSiE has founded. We will develop seasons that support and nurture both our current, new and emerging artists in their creative journeys while also growing with our artists, facilitators, partners, audiences and allies in the arts community. Our spaces will foster connections, share lived perspectives and encourage collaboration and creativity.
I am excited to collaborate with the CRIPSiE disability lead board, leadership team, and artists. Together, we will build opportunities both on and off stage, enabling us all to connect, learn, grow, thrive, and pursue our passion in the arts while being supported, seen, heard and valued.
