In a divided world, laughter can bring people together.
A group of Florida State University’s theatre program called the “Whammo Players” envisioned a place of continuing their passion for the arts, said communications director Matt Terrell.
Atlanta brought them to an old auto shop in the Inman Park neighborhood creating Dad’s Garage in 1995.
Dad’s Garage started as a for-profit but transitioned into an arts and culture nonprofit before the second year. Over 20 years in, they have widened their reach with corporate workshops, hosting other nonprofit events, pay it forward, kids camp and year-round programs.
The expansion of their high school outreach program helps build confidence, resilience and teambuilding skills, Terrell said.
After nearly a couple of years, the film project “That was Awesome” will be released later this summer.
Partnering with the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta (MJCCA) in their spotlight program, which works with actors with special needs, they produced the short video. The genre of the film is a bit of a sports (floor hockey) comedy.
Kevin Gillese, writer and executive director of this video, thought they could do more with the group than simply an improv class. Growing up and only a year apart, he had a front-row seat watching his special needs brother struggle to live a full life.
It was through his brother’s involvement in the Special Olympics that Gillese witnessed the sense of belonging and value his brother gained. The culmination inspired him to write the story.
“This game appears lopsided because one team is comprised of special needs adults and the other team bullies. It’s funny and sweet,” said Gillese. “Those with special needs just want the opportunity to try.”
“Atlanta really is lucky that this group of theatre-school grads made their way to Atlanta so many years ago and started this company because it’s truly a special and unique organization that really brings joy to the community,” said Gillese.
In December 2015, Dad’s Garage moved into their forever home. Two floors and over 300 productions a year allow for a lot of cohesiveness through laughter and giving back to the community.
Dad’s Garage is located at 569 Ezzard Street, S.E., Atlanta 30312 (404-523-3141).
For more info, visit dadsgarage.com
Each Sunday we write about a deserving person or charity events such as fun-runs, volunteer projects and other community gatherings that benefit a good cause. To submit a story for us to cover, email us at ajc.doinggood@gmail.com
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