A week of creativity, confidence-building, and self-expression came to a heartwarming close as Alabama State University hosted the final performance of Camp GIFTED, a unique summer theater arts camp designed to empower individuals with disabilities.
Held inside ASU’s Leila Barlow Theatre, the culminating show titled “We See Beauty Everywhere” brought smiles and standing ovations from the audience as eight participants from Beyond Success Academy took the stage. The original performance followed a group of excited students preparing for a field trip to an art museum—only to discover a surprise visit arranged by a mysterious figure named Mr. One Voice and his group of supporters.
Dr. Wendy Coleman, Dean of the College of Visual and Performing Arts, emphasized the importance of the program in redefining how society views disability.
“Camp GIFTED is so special to me because it helps the participants understand they are not disabled but have abilities,” she said.
The camp, which stands for Giving Individuals Freedom to Express Diversity, has been a part of ASU’s summer offerings since 2011, with a two-year hiatus during the pandemic. Through acting, movement, and artistic engagement, the camp gives individuals with varying abilities a stage—literally and figuratively—to shine.
The performance was filled with joyful moments, expressive storytelling, and heartfelt applause, reinforcing the camp’s core message: everyone has a voice, and every voice deserves to be heard.
Exposure gallery: