Spirit of Atlanta Launches ANGLE: A Revolutionary Performance Program for Special Needs Students
New Initiative Offers Unique Opportunities to Learn, Perform, and Shine
ATLANTA, GA – May 5, 2023 – Spirit of Atlanta, a renowned performing arts organization, is proud to announce the launch of ANGLE (All Needs Guard Leadership Experience), a groundbreaking program designed to offer special needs students in the Atlanta area unique performance opportunities they otherwise might not have the chance to experience.
This is the first of Spirit of Atlanta's plan to expand its reach beyond drum corps, focused on creating opportunities for young people in the Atlanta community to engage in the performing arts. ANGLE is a prime example of this commitment, as it aims to reach a wider audience and empower special needs students through the joy of dance and color guard performances.
ANGLE provides individuals aged 12 and over the opportunity to learn and perform choreographed routines, including dance moves set to music and the spinning of equipment like flags, all within a small, controlled space. The program aims to empower special needs students and inspire a lifelong love for the arts, while developing essential skills such as balance, memorization, dance, agility, and performance.
"We are thrilled to launch ANGLE and offer this transformative program to the Atlanta community," said Jason Burns, Executive Director for Spirit of Atlanta. "We believe in the power of the arts to change lives, and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment that fosters growth, confidence, and a sense of belonging for special needs students."
Claire Crawford, ANGLE Program Director, shared her enthusiasm for the new initiative: "Our goal is to provide an enriching and empowering experience for these talented young performers, showcasing their abilities and celebrating their achievements. We can't wait to see the positive impact ANGLE will have on our participants and the entire Atlanta community."
The inaugural 2023 ANGLE Program will be held from June 12-16, 2023, with a four-day rehearsal camp followed by a series of performances on Friday, June 16, including an evening performance with Spirit of Atlanta at Centennial Olympic Park in Downtown Atlanta. Additional performance opportunities throughout the summer are being evaluated. The rehearsal location is TBD and will be announced soon.
All instruction and equipment are provided free of charge, ensuring accessibility for all interested participants. Performance T-shirts will be given to all participants and available for purchase by family and friends. While the recommended age for participants is 12 years and older, newcomers are always welcome.
To learn more about ANGLE or to sign up, visit www.spiritofatlanta.org/angle for more information.