Expanding Our Reach to the Down Syndrome Community 

Thanks to a generous grant from the Theresa Foundation, Theatre Within is extending its positive reach to the Down syndrome Community at GiGi’s Playhouse NYC!

Our MAD Art Workshop, led by longtime MAD Magazine Art Director Sam Viviano, will be provided to teens with Down syndrome for eight weeks in the fall of 2024.  

GiGi’s Playhouse is the only community and education center specifically designed to support individuals with Down syndrome and their families in New York City.

 According to the Global Down Syndrome Foundation, Down syndrome is the least funded major genetic condition by the National Institute of Health, despite being the most frequent chromosomal disorder in the country. Each year about 5,700 babies are born in the U.S. with the condition. 

“It’s clearly a community in need and one we’re honored to serve,” said Theatre Within’s Executive-Artistic Director, Joe Raiola. “We owe a great debt of thanks to the Theresa Foundation for their vision and outreach.” 

Established in memory of Theresa Alessandra Russo, who was born in May 1986 with Microcephaly, a severe birth defect, and who passed away in December 1991, the Theresa Foundation funds programs in art, music, dance, drama, and recreation for children with special needs.  

Theatre Within’s dynamic and impactful programs came to the attention of Theresa’s father and Theresa Foundation Board member, Vincent J Russo, through the Annual John Lennon Tribute. It was his enthusiasm that got the ball rolling. 

"The Theresa Foundation is dedicated to creating opportunities that empower individuals with disabilities,” said Elizabeth Einhart, Executive Director of the Theresa Foundation. “This partnership with Theatre Within and GiGi’s Playhouse NYC represents a significant step towards enhancing the lives of these remarkable teens through art and self-expression. We are excited to be part of this meaningful project. By combining the artistic expertise from Theatre Within with the supportive environment provided by GiGi’s Playhouse NYC, we hope to inspire these young artists and help them discover their full potential.”

Since its launch in 2017, the MAD Art Workshop has been provided to cancer patients and survivors at the Red Door Community (formerly known as Gilda’s Club NYC) and teens experiencing homelessness at Covenant House.