In Fishers, Indiana, a unique dance program is providing individuals with physical and intellectual disabilities an opportunity to express themselves and build confidence through movement. Dance Abilities, founded by Claire Graham, offers structured classes tailored to participants’ varying needs and abilities.
The program originated from Graham’s personal experience with her sister, who has Down syndrome (DS). While studying dance in high school, Graham noticed a disconnect between her own activities and those accessible to her sister. This observation inspired her to create an inclusive dance environment. Since its inception three years ago as a summer camp for eight children, Dance Abilities has expanded into year-round classes serving around 20 participants of diverse ages and abilities.
Classes are categorized by age groups, including sessions for toddlers, young children, teenagers, and adults. Graham, who holds a degree in dance and a master’s in recreational therapy, focuses on ensuring each participant enjoys the experience and feels a sense of accomplishment rather than striving for technical perfection. “I’m not looking for perfection of position and not looking for a perfect performance, only a performance that they can feel confident about,” she said.
The program accommodates different learning styles by slowing the pace, emphasizing visual cues over verbal instruction, and providing assistants to guide participants physically through movements. A volunteer helper, 16-year-old Catherine Benko, explained that they sometimes introduce incremental challenges to motivate continued growth.
Dance Abilities addresses the specific physical needs of its students. For example, students with DS, who tend to be naturally flexible but with lower muscle tone, focus on strength development, while those with autism receive additional support with stretching. The program’s inclusive environment has had a positive impact on participants and their families.
Nicole Vester, whose son Finn has autism and DS, shared that her son had previously tried martial arts but struggled to keep pace with traditional instruction. Through Dance Abilities, Finn has found a supportive space where teaching is adjusted to his learning style. “He feels proud and accomplished and like he’s part of a group,” Vester said.
Similarly, Amanda McGarrell described how her 13-year-old son Tucker, who has DS and does not walk, eagerly runs into his dance classes. She highlighted the program’s distinction from typical therapies, noting it is something Tucker genuinely enjoys. “It’s just such a huge thing that Tucker’s given a space and a stage to be himself and get to be with friends and learn new things,” McGarrell said.
Beyond the local program, dancers with disabilities have gained wider recognition. For instance, two-time Paralympic gold medalist Ezra Frech, who has a prosthetic leg, is currently competing on the television show Dancing With The Stars, showcasing how dance can be a powerful means of overcoming challenges.
For Graham, the ultimate success lies in her students’ joy and growth. “If you give them the chance to succeed and meet them where they are, they can 100% grow,” she said. Hearing her students express pride in their achievements remains the most rewarding outcome of her work.