Center Stage FAQs
What is Center Stage for Access and Inclusion?
Center Stage is a unique event that will spotlight some of Chicago’s most talented performers with and without disabilities. Talents will range from singing sensations and epic dancing to comedy and storytelling. The event is free and open to the public.
What is the time and location?
September 14th, 2019 from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at Navy Pier’s Wave Wall Performance Platform, located adjacent to the Ferris Wheel. In the event of rain, the event will be held inside Navy Pier’s Food Experience near Ben & Jerry’s. Navy Pier is located at 600 E. Grand Avenue on Chicago’s lakefront.
Who will be performing?
Center Stage will spotlight Chicago’s most talented performers with and without disabilities. Special guest performer will be Avett Ray, a seven-year-old piano prodigy and YouTube sensation who happens to be visually impaired. Serving as emcee will be one of Chicago’s most engaging personalities, Leon Rogers of WGCI. Also performing will be:
- School of Rock Oak Park
- Young Chicago Authors, Kyla Pereles Award-winning poet
- Chicago Bulls Kids Talent Search Winner, Dallas_Da_Drummer
- Jazz Fusion Group Tommy Carroll’s Calculated Discomfort
- Insanely funny comedian Ben Noble
- Dance trio from Trinity Irish Dance
- Praetorium Sign Language Choir
- MOMENTA integrated dance company
- Rapper Martell Hill
- Mister Danny, headlining magician at Chicago Magic Lounge
- Sons of the Never Wrong, creating original ‘turbo-charged altfolk music’
What else is included in the event?
Award-winning author Larry Broutman will be selling and signing copies of Chicago Treasure, a highly imaginative new children’s book celebrating inclusion. OrCam will also be providing demonstrations of their assistive technology devices which enable individuals who are blind or visually impaired to function more independently.
Who is behind Center Stage for Access and Inclusion?
The event is presented by The Chicago Lighthouse in partnership with Chicago Treasure. Additional sponsors include Walgreens, OrCam, Julie Stark & Steven Lowenstein, Jewel Osco, RUSH, Chicago Magazine, and Pace.
Why is this event significant?
The Chicago Lighthouse is spearheading this event in an effort to encourage Chicagoans and visitors alike to gain a greater appreciation for the beauty and power of inclusion in every facet of our lives. The event will also encourage attendees to be “all in” for access and inclusion by opening doors for people with disabilities in their communities.
Is this event accessible?
The Pier is accessible and served by several CTA bus lines. Service animals are permitted, and there are several locations on Navy Pier where paratransit services can drop off and pick up visitors. Parking is also available, for a fee. For more information on Navy Pier accessibility click here.
How can I get involved?
Aside from attending this event, you can also become involved as either a sponsor, volunteer or you can donate. Please visit our Center Stage website to learn more.
