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Documentary Focuses on Inclusion

Left to Right: Abigail Zolkowski, Halea Damm, Elizabeth Zolkowski, Alyssa Quinones, Makayla Quinones, Grant Polzin, Hannah Rath, and Madison Wright. (Not pictured: Deane Thomas and Sarah Coughlin)
Photo provided by Amy Blommer
Left to Right: Abigail Zolkowski, Halea Damm, Elizabeth Zolkowski, Alyssa Quinones, Makayla Quinones, Grant Polzin, Hannah Rath, and Madison Wright. (Not pictured: Deane Thomas and Sarah Coughlin)

Inclusion is the focus of a new film by Quad Cities based Fresh Films. Now playing at the Putnam Museum in Davenport, "I am Able" follows 9 Quad Citizens with special needs during their 2019 performance of "Seussical Jr."

Amy Blommer, Producer for Fresh Films says one goal of the documentry is to create a conversation about inclusion, and ultimately, acceptance.

"We tend to label people. And so if we can peel back those labels and put the person, the human first, it opens up an an avenue for acceptance and inclusivity."

Blommer says there is a lack of opportunities for people with disabilities in the theatre, however, she hopes "I am Able" can help change this.

"The greatest agent of change is awareness. Right? So if we're aware and can have those conversations with students, with young people, at least there's an awareness there that there might not have been otherwise."

"I am Able" will play at the Putnam Museum through Sunday. Proceeds from ticket sales will go to a different nonprofit organization each night.

Tickets can be purchased at https://www.putnam.org/i-am-able.