(Keep scrolling for video!) | Our daughter Penny danced for twelve years at Fineline Theatre Arts, which included many years of performing scenes from the Nutcracker. We moved this year, and we didn’t know that Penny would have another opportunity to take ballet, nor did we know that she might be able to perform. And honestly, I didn’t know whether a new studio would treat her with the same dignity and respect that her previous studio had.

Every new experience for a person with Down syndrome carries the risk of misunderstanding, and it is easy for Penny’s gifts and abilities to be overlooked. But she auditioned for the show, she received her part, she showed up for rehearsal, and then there we were, excited to see her on stage again.

We are so proud of Penny for showing up and doing her part. And we are so thankful for the leaders at Fineline and Woodbury Ballet and all the other places like them that create spaces of belonging for so many kids and adults, including our daughter.

Here’s what Penny had to say about dancing again (and keep scrolling for a one-minute video clip from the performance!):

Penny, how did it feel to be dancing in the Nutcracker again?

Honestly, it felt amazing to be able to perform again.

I know you were a little concerned at the beginning that you wouldn’t have a big enough part. Why were you worried about that? How did it work out?

I was worried about that because I didn’t know if I was going to be dancing or not. It worked out pretty well.

What was one highlight from your experience?

One highlight from my experience was being able to dance with the principal dancers.

Video clips courtesy of Woodbury Ballet; some photos courtesy of Oleson Creative

MORE WITH AMY JULIA:

• More of Penny in her own words
• Workshop: Reimagining Family Life with Disability
• FREE RESOURCE: 10 Way to Move Toward a Good Future (especially for families affected by disability)

Let’s stay in touch. Subscribe to my newsletter to receive weekly reflections that challenge assumptions about the good life, proclaim the inherent belovedness of every human being, and envision a world of belonging where everyone matters. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube and subscribe to my Reimagining the Good Life podcast.