Since 2002, Artists Unlimited has been providing individuals with developmental, physical, and intellectual disabilities with the opportunity to participate in the performing arts. This fall, the organization will move into its brand-new home at Studio 44, located at 4434 Dewey Avenue, on the corner of Latta Road in Greece.
The story of Artists Unlimited began nearly 25 years ago, sparked by a powerful moment of inspiration. Founder Ed Schram was attending an event at Holy Childhood when he heard a young boy singing in the audience. Moved by the child’s voice, he turned to the boy’s mother and said, “Your child should really be on stage.” Her emotional response—“Nobody wants my child”—was a turning point. Ed realized there were few, if any, inclusive spaces in theater for individuals with special needs.
Determined to change that, Ed began building what would become a one-of-a-kind theater program—one that offered a creative, expressive, and safe space for individuals who typically wouldn’t have access to the performing arts. Initially, the vision had no financial backing. After being turned away by several potential sponsors, Ed and his wife took a bold step—they refinanced their home to make his dream a reality.
In 2002, Artists Unlimited launched its very first production at The German House in Rochester. The show was a resounding success, laying the foundation for what would become a beloved and growing program, supported by both local businesses and the special needs community.
After nine years, the group outgrew The German House and relocated to Kodak’s Theatre on the Ridge. Due to rising costs, they eventually moved again—this time to the Greece Performing Arts Center (GPAC) at Greece Athena High School. Now, with continued growth and success, the organization is thrilled to finally have a space of its own for rehearsals, meetings, and continued expansion.
“We needed our very own space,” said Mark DuPré, a member of the Artists Unlimited Board of Directors and longtime musical assistant. DuPré, a Columbia University graduate, former pastor, and current RIT adjunct professor, began volunteering with the organization after seeing their production of Beauty and the Beast. “It brought me to tears,” he shared. Inspired by the performers’ talent and heart, DuPré started helping with vocal coaching and eventually became Assistant Director and a board member.
The program now stages full-scale Broadway-style productions with colorful sets, professional costumes, an orchestra, and a dedicated stage crew. Past family-friendly shows include The Wizard of Oz, Cinderella, Mary Poppins, Peter Pan, Annie, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, and Shrek The Musical. Each production involves more than 250 behind-the-scenes volunteers and over 70 cast members. Productions are funded by corporate sponsors, individual donations, and ticket sales.
This November, Artists Unlimited will present its newest production—Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat—at the Greece Performing Arts Center.
The organization lives by its motto: “Changing lives one act at a time.” Participants gain confidence, life skills, and often move on to college or employment opportunities. “They learn what they can do, not what they can’t do,” said DuPré. One of their very own actors, Race Eberhardt, was cast in the lead role of a movie called Strait Undercover. He is the first and only disabled actor to play a lead role that did not call attention to his disability. Audiences who watch productions by Artists Unlimited, come to enjoy a show and leave deeply moved, often forgetting they’re watching performers with disabilities. “It’s the best community experience you will find—it’s life-changing,” he added.
To celebrate their new home, Artists Unlimited invites the community to an Open House on Wednesday, September 24 at 11 a.m. The event will include a ribbon-cutting ceremony, tours of the new studio, and refreshments.
To learn more about Artists Unlimited, upcoming productions, volunteer opportunities, or to donate, visit: www.rocartistsunlimited.com.
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