The Own Voices Project Premiere

If you weren’t at the premiere of “The Own Voices Project,” you sure did miss a great show! The Arc of Clarion and Venango Counties released their short, new film entitled “The Own Voices Project.” The actors and actresses came out on a red carpet just before the premiere and took their bows before the audience. 

Although we all love a good show and popcorn, this film didn’t just come to be because a director had a dream. This film became a reality because the actors and actresses had a dream and a voice.

The film is intended to educate people about the issues faced by people who experience disabilities.  The Own Voices Project initially started with a round table discussion of 21 people with disabilities, talking about the issues they face in their lives.  The film was developed and performed by people with disabilities.  The people being served, play the roles of staff, professionals, etc. Staff play the roles of people who experience disabilities. 

The whole premise of the project was to give people with disabilities the opportunity to freely express the issues they face in their lives, to educate others about their experiences, and to provide insight into best practices for interaction with people who live with disabilities. 

The film is around 36 minutes long and has 15 different video clips covering varying issues.  The actors and actresses did a phenomenal job! They provided unique insight into everyday issues and made uncomfortable topics, comfortable.  This film opened dialog that is long overdue.

After the premiere, the audience was able to attend the film panel discussion with the actors and actresses.  Open discussion included questions and answers on filming, difficulty of playing roles, fun of being in the film, and sharing wisdom gained through the making (for the actors) and through the viewing (for the audience) of this film.  Further, audience members were able to meet with the actors and actresses to get autographs signed!

The Arc of Clarion and Venango Counties want everyone to feel free to share.  Enjoy it with friends, family, and co-workers.  One could even use it to help people better understand just how harmful good intentions can be.

To view “The Own Voices Project” click below or copy and paste this link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vbvDMydN1KU to your web browser.   As one of the actors said, “we need your help to spread the word!”