Did you know? CATA is the largest outside provider of arts programs for students with disabilities in local public schools, reaching more than 600 children and teens across eight districts!
Week after week, young CATA artists are building important skills like communication, collaboration, and problem-solving—all while painting, dancing, making music, and having fun.
One of the most meaningful moments of the year comes in May, when children and teens from our school programs are invited to attend a special Dress Rehearsal preview of our Annual Performance—just for them. For many students, this is more than an exciting field trip. It’s a turning point—a moment when they begin to see what’s possible.
“This performance is a powerful experience for hundreds of young people with disabilities,” says Jeff Gagnon, CATA Program Director. “Children and teens get to see adult artists with disabilities on stage and in leadership roles, and they start to imagine their own futures in a new way.”
In the weeks leading up to the performance, CATA artists visit special education and traditional classrooms as Ambassadors to share what it’s like to be a performer. Those visits spark conversations that break down stereotypes and build connections—helping all students feel more comfortable, included, and excited for the theatrical experience.
“It’s really meaningful for students to see a person like me who is an artist and also disabled,” says Asa, a CATA Artist Ambassador. “It means a lot to me that I can give them something to look forward to.”
“The impact of this program ripples out, benefiting so many,” Jeff says. “Adult CATA artists are stepping into leadership roles as Ambassadors, and students get inspired about their futures.”
When a child discovers their creative voice—when they see themselves as an artist, a performer, a leader—that transformation ripples out to classmates, teachers, families, and beyond.
“For my students to see someone with a disability as a leader, they know that they can lead, too,” says a special education teacher from Pittsfield Public Schools. “That’s huge for our kids.”
