When it comes to the shows that not only disabled audiences crave, but many Broadway fans included are fresh, new ideas that take form, and even beloved stories, with new spins.

The last show to do this, in NYC– in my honest opinion–was Deaf West’s “Spring Awakening” in 2019, starring now-Tony-winning Ali Stroker and Oscar winner Marlee Matlin.

Now if you’re asking yourself, what about the most recent Broadway show to truly incorporate access “How to Dance in Ohio”? There are a handful of things that create conflicts surrounding accessibility: cost accessibility, subject matter, and time of the run spent in NYC and the lack of a “pro-shot” or a filmed professional performance of a show.

Something that most theatre audiences universally crave are new, original stories and music. This is what made “Spring Awakening” as iconic as it still is. The current-most inclusive Broadway show with an original-spin on a classic story would be “Hadestown,” which will have its proshot streaming in theatres for a limited time, starting July 24th.

While there currently are not any plans for “Hadestown: The Movie” to make it to streaming, this is what made the experience of watching the pro-shot of “Hamilton” so incredible. Noting that yes, “Hamilton’s” pro-shot aired amidst the global pandemic, during Broadway’s almost complete shutdown. However, it’s expanded the value of commemorating these moments, with original casts, making their magic. Including Andre DeShield’s originated Tony Award winning performance, as Hermes in “Hadestown”.

What was great about the “Wicked”-adaptations of the film were that they now bring Broadway not only into the home, but embedded the ideas of inclusion and acceptance into our culture and collective ideologies.

Now on Broadway, we even have the physical representation of disability on Broadway with “Suffs” performer Jenna Bainbridge. She’s now the very first authentic wheelchair user to ever play the live role of Nessarose in the history of “Wicked” with Marissa Bode (and Cesily Collette, aka “Young Nessa”) playing the role of Nessa in the “Wicked” films.

Currently there is also disability representation in “Label Less” by Lea and Drew Lachey, starring Kaylee Bays, who also has performed with the infamous wheelchair dance group, The Rollettes.

What makes this performance so special, with every story shared in the show: it’s each performer’s voice. Kaylee’s story is her own, and you can feel that in each and every word of her monologued performance. Arguably yes, the show’s soundtrack does borrow from the pop music genre of our generation, including Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way”. However, there is so much life in the performance of the majorly talented company of the show. The heartbeat of the show, overall.

There was also a recent staging of a new Deaf West show, “Elephant Shoes” loosely based on an adaptation of the story from “Cyrano De Bergerac” but much like with “How to Dance in Ohio,” while a show can be inclusive and greatly employ a multitude of disabled performers and crew— if the source material itself doesn’t stand alone, audiences will still take issue. Arguably, “Cyrano” (and also “Richard III” are both/is) a very much overused tale within the Disability Community, whereas there’s still something special about the individualized story of what makes “Elephant Shoes,” still a piece that I couldn’t help but to love. It needed less of the classic and more of its own originality. Whereas the arguable issue with “How to Dance..” the documentary itself suggests favoritism toward the story’s “saviouristic” characters and didnt so much let the collective focus be on those of its subject matters. Everything starts with its source.

To current theatremakers with a show or theatre experience that you’re looking to maximize accessibility for; When I saw the performance of “All of Me” with Kyra Sedwick, a love story about two wheelchair users, The New Group–knowing their audience– actually used Jenna Bainbridge’s consulting firm “Consultability” to incorporate variously accessible performances.

This included masked audiences, relaxed performances, ASL performances and more.

Beyond the tokenization of “ticking the (disability) box,” just as any audience craves substance, it’s about time somebody considered what disabled audiences & our allies truly desire.

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We chat with actors: Paul Rudd, Jeremy Sisto and lead actress Felice Kakaletris along with director Erika Burke Rossa. Special shout out and thanks to my red carpet assist by Pamela Rae Schuller * (who maybe might have been just as famous as the actors in the film, she was recognized so much—Couldn’t love this for her more!)

This is easily some of Jeremy Sisto & production’s best work. Not to mention the purest intention, in director Erika Burke Rossa’s framing of the story, which I think helped me fall in love with the storytelling, even more! …yes even beyond the puddle of tears I was left in, beyond viewing the film itself!

So often, from a reading perspective of a narrative, we truly understand how a character sees themself, from their perception & point of view, in the world around them. I’m so appreciative of the collaborative approach the production made to telling the truths at the root of some often difficult material.

Authentically cast, “Rain Reign” truly makes our list of Disability Reality’s “Certified Hot-Tea” recommendation!

FULL INTERVIEW TW: Story spoilers and sensitive material, ahead… definitely well-worth the inside-look!

Transcript coming soon!

Key Topics

• Lachi’s personal journey with blindness and neurodivergence

• The founding and mission of Ramp’d organization

• The importance of disability representation in the music industry

• Lachi’s upcoming book ‘I Identify as Blind’ and accessibility features

• The role of mentorship and community in disability advocacy

Takeaways

• Embracing your disability and neurodivergence leads to greater authenticity and success.

• Creating inclusive spaces in the music industry benefits everyone.

• Mentorship and community are vital for empowering disabled artists.

• Disability culture is a source of innovation and creativity.

• Lachi’s story exemplifies resilience and the power of authenticity.

Sound Bites

• “We all mask to each other, hiding our true selves.”

• “Disability culture is a source of innovation and creativity.”

• “The biggest adversity is what we overcompensate for.”

Keywords

Disability advocacy, neurodivergence, music industry, Ramped, Grammy, accessibility, neurodivergent leadership, disability representation, mental health, inclusive music, synesthesia

Action Items

• Visit Ramp’d to learn how to support or join the organization.

• Pre-save or purchase Lachi’s upcoming book ‘I Identify as Blind’.

• Reflect on your own masking behaviors and embrace authenticity.

• Catch Lachi’s incredible music videos: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCA2PBmpnjG3kZLDEI2asbXA

• Follow @lachimusic & @ramp_up on all social platforms Thank you to our paid sponsors Liza, Nib and "Map" & Substack Monthly Suscriber: CCraftCollective

Team USA’s audiences have been calling attention to the fact that they are currently struggling to find the Paralympic-level coverage from the broadcasting networks covering the games.

A major contrast to that of the Olympic games, only a few short weeks ago—from the jump of the Paralympics opening ceremony’s live broadcast, physically being buried on the Peacock app.

However, while it is a criticism for the network, it should be noted that the anchors and journalists covering the events are beyond well-equipped to be on the job. Many of them, including Lacey Henderson — former and/or retired Paralympians —as on-air representation.

There is still so much work to be done from having additional commentators, further funding and to calling out the network for not hiring disabled-entertainers who AREN’T athletes, as boots on the ground representation. Think à la Snoop Dogg, who attends at a rumored $500k/a day pay rate.

In case the search is on, future disabled entertainers that we suggest for coverage include:

Melanie Waldman (“QVC”)
Marissa Bode (“Wicked”)
Lauren Lolo Spencer (“The Sex Lives of College Girls”),
Jillian Ilana Curwin (“Always Looking Up” Podcast)
Jillian Mercado (“Dying for Sex”)
Santina Muha (“Freakier Friday”)
Steve Way
Pavar Snipe
Imani Barbarin
and more!

Our time is now, NBC & Peacock — pretty please, do better!

What are your thoughts?? Tag your favorite Paralympian and make some noise for the games and its representation!

#NBCParalympics #Paralympics2026 #Culxtured #DisTeaPod #MilanCortina2026

Big news for interested sponsors! You can now either become a paid substack subscriber, in order to sponsor or have a custom commercial that will be played on air (a la Smartless-style!) Explore Sponsorship options here or…

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Episode Breakdown:

Jill & Melanie, explore themes of disability representation in media, the cutural impact of Marissa Bode in “Wicked”, their personal journeys, and the dynamics of reality TV. They discuss the importance of authentic representation & portrayals of disabled individuals--in the media, the impact of mental health on their lives, and the significance of attending the (then) future premiere, of “Wicked:For Good”.

The conversation also touches on the challenges of navigating social issues within the realm of entertainment, particularly in the context of what’s called the “Bravoverse”/ Bravo’s Network’s reality TV programming, especially via “The Housewives” franchises.

Chapters

00:00 Melanie’s Intro: “(Flirting) Through Life”

02:54 Disability and Reality

05:29 Wicked Premiere: A Celebration of Representation

08:24 Media and Disability: Lifting the Veil

11:14 Reality TV: Where did the Disabled People Go?

14:10 The Impact of Representation in Film

16:57 Bravo and Below Deck: A Reality TV Revolution

19:40 Housewives and Social Commentary

30:42 Reality TV Dynamics and Personal Connections

33:09 Insults and Their Impact in Reality TV

36:10 More on Disability Representation in Reality Television

39:04 The Evolution of Reality TV and Authentic Representation

41:49 Cultural Commentary and Social Issues in Reality Shows

45:45 The Future of Reality TV and Representation

disability, media representation, reality TV, Wicked, mental health, inspiration porn, Bravo, Olympic dreams, personal journeys, social issues

🇲🇽 My Disability Reality The idea of traveling> traveling with newfound dietary elements to eliminate. Woof.

Newly back from our trip to Mexico—which ended out beautifully but it was definitely a bumpy road to get to see Guadalajara for the very first time.

Shout out to both @olympics & @paralympics for keeping a girl company while in recovery. This hasn’t been my first time staying in watching the games either while in a hospital room or catching up on some R&R. As a disabled person in those situations as often as I am, I know better than most how well these athletes can keep us feeling like we’re still a part of something bigger than ourselves.

However, once out I was FINALLY up for getting out & about, it was truly the best test of my Spanglish a girl could ask for!

Everyone asked about @badbunnypr and we found it hilarious that an uber driver or 2 heavily didn’t like him for the fact that they couldn’t understand his lyrics, much like the Super-Bowl-Karens — doc that gave me a good laugh.

At least 80 degrees, sun, tequila and some of the best Mexican food I have had in my entire life. Well worth the GRIT it took to get there.

Back home & now off to find out more about my poor tummy, but it lmost never hurts to invest that time in the research. Ready for the next adventure!!

#Tlaquepaque #Guadalajara #Mexico #Gastroparesis #DisTeaPod

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One of my favorite items to collect: hands. It may seem gruesome to some, but they’re my little sparks of joy and reminder that not all things need to be serious. Laughing at ourselves its truly the best medicine!

[IMG Description: Melanie, a right arm amputee wears a black button down V neck top, posing in front of a mirror. She is missing her right arm below the elbow and has brown curly hair with an even lighter curly brown pain of glasses. She grins looking at 2 statue of fists, knucles down. Text reads: “just a chronically, ill and limb, different girl, sick on vacation in Guadalajara 🇲🇽”]

[IMG Description: instead of porcelain hands, one in the shape of the ASL for I love you. They are ring holders both in the color pink. They are on a stand above necklace is very in gold and silver colors of various different shapes and sizes.]

[IMG description: a gray curtain in front of the large window, behind a teal bedspread with the words in white text with a black background: "Gets to Mexico only to have one of the worst Gastroparesis G.I. flares, it's a date! First vacay in almost a decade, and it's tough not to envision any better trip and wanted to see myself some medical attention. Hanging in for now.]

[IMG Description: A bottle of clear “Electrolit” drink on a black counter in front of a window, with white tect and a black background. Text reads: “Bless our family locals who not only dropped off treats but the found this. brand sells COCO?! 10/10]

[IMG description: 2 image overlay, and both Melanie is wearing a tan shirt with brown pants and a black sling purse over her shoulder. The photo in the background is of Melanie in a large selfie mirror. You can see a tree with hanging heart signs as it's Valentine's Day! Red and white threads hanging from the tree. Photo on top is a selfie of Melanie in front of a large FIFA statue. Text reads: (Black background, white text) “2 dias despues, la princesa emergia” (in white background black text) ‘2 days later, the princess emerged” ]

[IMG Description: Melanie stands in front of a gray concrete wall, wearing a light yellow shirt, with the character "Abuela quote from the movie "Enconto "on it, in pink ink. Black, sling purse across her chest. Her hair is down with a navy blue Tribeca festival, hat and large tortoise brown rectangle, glasses with silver hoops. Her lip gloss is the same color pink as the shirt.. Text reads “Final day, made it back outside”]

[IMG description: the same gray concrete wall with the text "finally “ over a clear blue pool with some greenage on it’s side. a corner of the pool is in direct sunlight]

[IMG Description: melanie, in a selfie, wearing her bionic arm. She is wearing a knitted, bright purple sweater and smiling with her hair down. She is again in front of the FIFA statue. Text in white ink at the bottom reads “Guadalajara (below) Guadalajara Municipality”

[Image Description: photos courtesy of Sundance Institute, Edited collage “Sundance Film Fest 2026 “Disability Reality in colors of lim green, evergreen and light pink. centeres is author Melanie Waldman, clipped from a 2025 press line. Images of Will Brill, Gillian Michaels, Rob Lowe, Ali Ahn, Anna Sargent, Domhnall Gleeson and documentary images of “Joybubbles” and “Seized”]

Disability Reality returns for another round of films at this year’s Sundance film festival, opting for the virtual, while snowed-in via the NY Metro area. That being said, make no mistake, though the fest is moving, we WILL return!

Aside: talk about a week where it feels like work is obsolete when the world feels like it’s crumbling to the ground– from America to Iran to everywhere else, in between. While our hearts break with the communities of Minneapolis and in any areas currently feeling the negative impacts of ICE violence, surveillance, & chaos–my heart truly sees and acknowledges your pain and goes out to all of you.

Now, with that out of the way. It brings us to this year’s Sundance Film Festival. Having boots-on-the-ground last year was something that I once again hope to revisit BUT would not have been possible without the help of the non-profit “Lucky Fin Project” as well as from the physical, mental, emotional presence and support from my colleagues and collaborators Angel Giuffria and Samantha Tokita… and yes, even our moose friend too. #IYKYK

What’s new? This year’s line up wasn’t fully accessible online, as only a certain amount films are available for remote watching, That being said, I’m here to share some of my top recommendations for those who may want to support the Sundance org by purchasing a virtual screening of any of the following films, which will be avail via the Sundance org website starting Jan 29-Feb 2. Online accessibility includes closed captions in various languages on most films, audio description on some.

Please note that while this platform advocates for the inclusion of people with disabilities in cinema*, this post is for our inner-cinephiles EVERYWHERE of every ability. Not all films below will be disabled-related.

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In no particular order:

“The Incomer”

[Image Courtesy of Sundance Institute]

Wow, this one made me cackle, jump, holler, gawk and CAW!!! One of the funniest indie films I’ve seen, since the OG Sundance comedy “Little Miss Sunshine”. This is a real treat of escapism, especially if the events of the real world are really weighing heavily on you. Get yourself some belly-laughs!

Executive Produced by Moby, Trevor Noah, Lindsay Hicks, Katie Holly, Phil Hunt.

Synopsis: On a remote Scottish isle, siblings Isla and Sandy hunt birds and talk to mythical beings while fighting off outsiders. Their lives change when Daniel, an awkward official, arrives to relocate them.

Relocating a pair of siblings is easier said than done in Louis Paxton’s delightful, uproariously funny, heartwarming first feature. A comedic inflection of Scottish island folklore, The Incomer draws us into its eclectic vision through sublime deadpan humor, formal inventiveness, a sprinkling of animation and fantastical creatures, and the charm of its oddball characters. Having lived in isolation and mistrustful of mainland folk, Isla and Sandy (brilliantly played by Gayle Rankin and Grant O’Rourke) initially try to toss Daniel (Domhnall Gleeson) off the island — literally. But several days and one initiation ritual later, there’s a thaw. The siblings share their lore and Daniel speaks of mainland virtues, like avocados and the internet. Their interactions are fresh and funny, but there’s also a poignant exchange around belonging.

“Take Me Home”

[Image Courtesy of Sundance Institute]

*A disability-centered dramatic comedy

This one hits so close to home, on so many levels that they’re almost too hight o count. Listen, I’ve lived in Florida.. Much like this family gets it “That’s Orlando”, I GET IT! Beyond that its a story about how oftentimes the caregivers of people with disabilities(PWD) often are PWD’s-themselves or are adjacently-aligned. This not only is Anna Sargent’s Cinematic & Sundance debut(s) but was also written and directed by Liz Sargent (Anna’s sister) but the main action of the film was filmed in their genuine Central Florida home & neighborhood.

Captions and Audio Description available

Synopsis

Anna, a 38-year-old Korean adoptee with a cognitive disability, cares for her aging parents in a fragile balance of meeting each other’s needs. When a Florida heat wave shatters their family and Anna’s routine, her future is uncertain - until she creates a world where she can thrive.

Cast: Ali Ahn stars as Anna’s fictional sister, Emily. Supporting cast includes Victor Slezak, Marceline Hugot, Shane Harper and includes fun appearances by authentically cast disabled actors, including Shannon Devido and (our podcast’s very first guest) .

Happy to report that access coordination was provided on set and production was supported by Caring Across Generations. “Take Me Home” was the Tribeca Film Festival award winner of their Untold Stories Competition.

“Seized”

[Image Courtesy of Sundance Institute]

What a delightful documentary that truly strikes a chord of the fear & terror that is even moreso present today. “The Marion County Record” and the late Joan Meyer were almost whistleblowers to the issues to come for both journalists and private citizens, shining a light on government corruption, if even on a “small scale” level.

*I was surprised to find that there was an element of disability representation that has a stake in this race, but that’s a discovery I’ll extend to the viewer(s) discretion.

Synopsis: SEIZED is a gripping, stranger-than-fiction investigative thriller that plunges audiences inside the troubling police raid on the Marion County Record. What begins as a shocking small-town incident quickly spirals into a national story, exposing how corruption, politics, and decades-long tensions turned a quaint Kansas community into a battleground over the First and Fourth Amendments. The film unfolds in real time through police body-cam and surveillance footage, revealing the raid’s chaos, the bombshells that followed, and the devastating personal toll on the newsroom, including the tragic death of its 98-year-old co-owner.

Director Sharon Liese allows the story to unfold with nuance, surprises, eccentric characters, and humor. By letting each voice speak for itself, she crafts a rare documentary in which sympathies shift moment to moment, revealing how truth, ego, and fear collide in real time. Blending the juicy intrigue of a classic muckraking narrative with a clear-eyed exploration of power, politics, and the fragility of a free press, SEIZED transforms a headline-grabbing event into a deeply human story that is urgent, unsettling, and impossible to ignore.

“Joybubbles”

[Image Courtesy of Sundance Institute]

*A disability-centered documentary

Much like how today’s internet is a form of access for people all over the world, for Joe Engressia, the phone was a means of access from Engressia to the world.

A boy discovers he can control the global telephone system simply by whistling a magic tone. Born blind and hungry for connection, Joybubbles’ early obsession with the phone grew into a subculture that shaped the future of hacking and modern technology.

Told through vivid archival footage and Joybubbles’ own voice recordings, the film celebrates a visionary who redefined connection and challenged assumptions about disability, identity, and imagination. JOYBUBBLES pulses with the curiosity and wonder he brought to the world, brought to life through director Rachael J. Morrison’s inventive, tactile storytelling.

Captions and Audio Description available

“Union County”

[Image Courtesy of Sundance Institute]

An authentically beautiful overall portrayal of an underrepresented community, recovery court & its “graduates”. The tension is high, as from the jump we hear of the consequences that can be faced. From failing to meet program requirements via relapse, or even facing the penalties of being incarcerated. Despite that tension, there is breath in the space.

The county itself becomes a character, all its own – and we find that the ultimate sensation of breath found within the community, almost hidden in plain sight, that supports program-achievements and success.

Synopsis: Assigned to a county-mandated drug court program, Cody Parsons (played by Will Poulter) embarks on the tenuous journey toward recovery amid the opioid epidemic in rural Ohio.

“The Musical”

[Image Courtesy of Sundance Institute]

Are these children wearing Laduca’s dancing to a song about… WAIT, let me back it up for just a second. Overall, what a truly fun reminder that spite can be held in a sense of lightheartedness and FUN. I feel like many of the reviews I’ve read on this film have made what feels like the obvious comparisons to “School of Rock.” In my honest opinion, they’re only similar in that they all but didn’t say “stick it to the man”.. Better yet, our main character names it: “The Manchurian Candidate”, “the algorithm”, “the MACHINE”. My favorite reminder of the film was this: “The superpower of the theatre as the element of SURPRISE”. Trust, you’re going to absolutely love/hate my “Man Crush Monday” Tony Award winner [Stereophonic] Will Brill.

Synopsis: When a frustrated playwright and middle school theater teacher (played by Brill) finds out his ex-girlfriend (Gillian Michaels) has started dating his nemesis, the school’s principal (Rob Lowe), he decides to ruin the principal’s chances of winning the Blue Ribbon of Academic Excellence.

“Carousel”

[Image Courtesy of Sundance Institute]

Came into this one expecting one thing and walking away with another, and I loved every second of it. Jenny Slate completely shines opposite Chris Pine in some of his most outstanding work to-date! Awards season, better watch out for this heavy-hitter. Have your tissues on standby, too–this one absolutely goes for the overall-emotional-juggular… and no spoilers, but the smut is 10/10 of the whole fest for me, this year!

Synopsis:

A divorced doctor’s (Chris Pine) carefully constructed life in Cleveland is upended when his daughter’s debate aspirations and the unexpected return of a past love (Jenny Slate) force him to confront his own choices and embrace a second chance.

Content Warning: (semi-spoiler) some focus on mental health issues & societal pressures. You may want to have a box of tissues, on stand by.

That’s a wrap for 2026!

Were you able to attend the fest for its “last dance” in Park City and/or have a favorite that isn’t listed/worth further exploration? Say more in the comments!

[Image of author Melanie Rivera Waldman, Courtesy of Sundance Institute 2025]

Oh, what a celebration we will have (that) day, when the cinematic world finally learns what those of us who have come to love the Broadway show have always known to be true. The story of “Wicked” is anything but too good to be true.

Have I seen the film? At this point: Yes, twice now. I am very fortunate, for those of you who know me best, to have been blessed to have been able to work as invited press on the red carpet of “Wicked: For Good”. For now, that content will be put out throughout my social media channels, so you can follow along here, all throughout “Wicked (2) Week”

The movie itself will be opening in theatres on November 21, which means that our ears will soon be blessed with an ALL-NEW FULL SOUNDTRACK of the entire book of “Wicked”, including 2 (technically like 2.5-3 if you’re counting Marissa Bode’s unnamed song because in & of itself... well...)

Anyway, in an effort to avoid any further spoilers, I’d share “Wicked Part II” with you by opening up on how I personally mentally prepared to experience and embody the brand new piece of cinematic (her)story

Hold onto your broomsticks, witches!

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TRUST that this episode is nothing but the most joyous of ALL joys.

Share in the laughter, love, and knowledge DROPPED along Austin’s incredible career journey and how both the one and only Lachi @rampd_up and even Gavin Degraw's music producer, all became involved, along the way!

We adore you big time, king!!!

The latest podcast episode, hosted by Melanie Rivera Waldman is out and streaming wherever you get your podcasts, NOW!

For more on the podcast & our host:

Host Melanie Rivera Waldman
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Buckle up, buttercups. Here's my run down of disability represented authentically in indie film festivals for the first half of 2025

This year I’ve truly challenged myself.

On my own dime* & time —*with thanks to my friends at Amplitude Media Group, as well as Lucky Fin Project— I began attending and have been watching more hours of disability cinema than a lot of the professionals in standard professional film critics’ role(s). I traveled to Salt Lake City with two of my closest gal pals and colleagues, where we were released to the elements. We even came within a hair's breadth of a wild moose encounter (luckily, our sweet Samantha made out alright)! Followed by 2 separate NYC film fests and honestly.. We’ve only just gotten started!

Is it physically exhausting on my disabled body, sure. Is the emotional strain even more unbearable? You better believe it. But this is more than anything where my passion has made its home. I can’t remember where or even which one of them –Khloe, Kim, or one of the eldest Kardashian women..and if you know which one/episode/or season, please feel free to comment below– When leaving Paris Fashion Week, overlooking the city, feeling fully regulated & fulfilled, they let out the following sentence that will absolutely summarize everything I’m about to share, below. More than anything I can say with my whole sense of being “I’ve found my niche”.

In no particular order– and with as minimal spoilers as possible–here are some of my festival favorites, reviews of:

Authentic disability representation at each festival and beyond.

“Room to Move” (RTM)

@disabilityrealityHot take: Dance is communication. Be sure to check out Jenn Freeman’s “Room to Move”, on her journey as a dancer with late-diagnosed autism spectrum disorder. Jenn and Tony award winner Sonya Tayeh collaborate on the piece “Is it Thursday Yet”. “Room to Move” is produced by Amy Schumer & Chris Fischer and directed by @Beyoncé “Homecoming”’s Alexander Hammer @go.for.hammer You can check out the screening times and dates at the @tribeca estival’s link in bio! #Tribeca2025 #DisabilityReality #DisabilityInCinema #DisabilityRelresentation #DisTeaPod #AdaptingYoga #TonyAwards #JennFreeman #SonyaTayeh #AmySchumer #TribecaFilmFestival @Melanie Rivera Waldman @Adapting Yoga

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This was easily one of my top 5 favorite documentaries on disability since “Crip Camp,” in the manner of how revolutionary it is–not only for the greater disabled community but for the greater good of humanity on how we talk about disability with one another.

Without giving away one too many spoilers, I’m otherwise going to keep this as vague as possible but only to surmount the hype that I’m laying between the lines.

This film left me feeling like it checked all of my boxes: as an advocate, an artist, and even as a pop-culture fan-girlie, overall. That feeling of not being able to say what you feel about your own lived- experience that someone else says so eloquently for you, is a feeling almost better than anything. That was “Room to Move” by Jenn Freeman & Alex Hammer, for me.

The privilege I had to be there for that opening night was so special to me and meeting the team has forever changed me as both an artist and reporter, forever.

“Horsegirls” (HG)

@disabilityrealityThe authentically cast “Horsegirls” premiered today at @tribeca film festival. Telling the story of when a young woman grapples with her mother’s health struggles, she comes into her power of independence. Leading star Lillian Carrier sat down with us to talk about her character Margarita’s journey of processing grief. Using her own experience with her autism diagnosis to inform the choices her character comes to grow through. #Horsegirls #Tribeca2025 #Hobbyhorsing #Autism #AuthenticCasting #LillianCarrier #GretchenMol #DisabilityInCinema

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Oh, what fun. In my honest opinion, this is the new “Juno” of disabled storytelling if you changed the adversities of adoption & pregnancy to autism & grieving, instead. Written by Lauren Meyering and bestie Mackenzie Breeden–written for Mackenzie’s late mother and in honor of the real Marguerite, herself.

I was actually able to not only screen but also get to interview both Meyering and leading actress, Lillian Carrier (“As We See It” & “Everything’s Going to Be Okay”) before the film’s premiere and learned so many fun facts that I just have to release a future minisode with clips, does the line for the podcast.

Something that I learned about the process of how this story came together on screen absolutely MADE this film a top choice for me. Lauren, at the helm as director felt as though she was “in it” for this film to be collaborative from the jump:

“So much of what Lillian contributed–(to) it (being) so much of what Mackenzie's sister, Marguerite, contributed. You know, I would be sending her drafts. It's like, I think the most important thing is when you're doing a story like this is that you are just kind of the avenue to tell the story. Maybe you're the one putting the words on the page, but so much of it has to be a collaboration.

It has to, in order for it to be authentic and truthful, otherwise, you're not gonna get a story that resonates with people. And so I was just so grateful to have, I mean, pretty much the entirety of the way through people to talk to and call with and collaborate with to make sure that this story was told correctly.”

Also on this project were: Associate producer Alex Plank (“Ezra”) to stars like Iqbal Theba (“Glee”, “Deli Boys”), Gretchen Mol (“Boardwalk Empire”), Jerod Haynes (“Good American Family”), and more.

Manifesting that this hilarious depiction of family love, independence, and grace has a massive theatrical release, acquisition, and absolute award season BUZZ. “Horsegirls” as a whole deserves nothing less.

“How to Train Your Dragon” (HTTYD)

@disabilityrealityJoin us for the NYC Tribeca premiere of “How to Train Your Dragon” with stars Gerard Butler, Mason Thames, Nico Parker and writer/director Dean Deblois. @Melanie Rivera Waldman chats with the team about the significance of seeing disability representation (on the carpet) and on screen! SO very much more to come, stay tuned!! #Httyd #HowToTrainYourDragon #Tribeca2025 @tribeca #AuthenticRepresentation #RepresentationMatters #LimbDifference #LimbDifferenceAwareness #DisabilityPride #Toothless #Hiccup #Amputee #Amputees #Prosthetics #BionicArm #GerardButler #DeanDeblois #NicoParker #MasonThames @Mason Thames

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Much like in “The Handmaid's Tale” many of the characters are cast with say, imDb star metered glory: Listers to high flyers with massive followings, but also they then chose to be authentically inclusive of actresses like the indelibly talented Carey Cox who played Nick’s. Their Wife Rose is in the final season of the series.

I think that HTTYD blended their original cohort of limb different icons by incorporating new characters, including one of my very personal favorites, Ruth Codd. She has starred opposite acting legends from Mark Hammill in “The Fall of the House of Usher” to LEADING “The Midnight Club” and now will be in the upcoming series “Irish Blood” opposite Alicia Silverstone.

I cannot wait for more of this saga to unfold, so much more fun to come—though I do hope they extend their 4DX releases, down the line too!

Dont get me started on daddy.. I mean Gerry Butler*

@disabilityrealityReplying to @K-Bug okay, but check the full replay! We’re now absolutely honoured to present “(Gerry’s beautifully unhinged) version” from the 2025 @tribeca red carpet premiere of “How to Train Your Dragon” @httydragon Shout outs to Nick Frost and Ruth Codd @ruthcoddsnotdead , we collectively love ALL of your work to (prosthetic) boot(s)🦿🫶🏼👑 Queen #Phlegma long may she REIGN Fun facts: 1) ..didn’t know I would be doing interviews with anyone other than Dean Deblois —so this was a total surprise! 2) By the kiss on the cheek, I had completely blacked out AND Gerard Butler was rushed off with my tiny mic!! .. Viking chief?? More like Viking-THEIF!! Career highlight for yours truly ? 10/10!!! ✅🦾🥰🙏👏🫂🫶🏼 @whereswaldman #DisTeaPod #DisabilityReality #DisabilityInCinema #GerryButler #GerardButler #RuthCodd#NickFrost #HowtoTrainYourDragon

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“Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore”

I caught a screening of this film out at Sundance on the final showing day and we were blessed when Director Shoshanna Stern and subject Marlee Matlin both arrived (fully in style) for a post-screening Q&A. What an impactful film. Being mindful of spoilers: I was already a major “Joey Lucas” fan. As if Marlee’s acting career alone wasn’t historic enough, there was so much about her that I learned from this docu about this woman's impact on your very own current TV screen that will absolutely blow your mind!

I chose to skip the screening at Tribeca to prioritize seeing Horsegirls BUT was overjoyed when I learned that the red carpet was happening for “Not Alone Anymore” on the same red carpet as Horsegirls! With a little help from Tribeca staff & to my absolute delight, I was able to find a small space on the end of the red carpet to wave the ASL sign for “ILY (I love you)” to both Marlee & Shoshana–and they waved back.

Life made.

“Unholy” By Daisy Friedman

Okay, THIS ONE we were blessed to get the full scoop on the short for the podcast and you can tear into that one, if you haven’t already. This may be my top short on disability storytelling this year! Director Daisy Friedman blew my mind with this one from top to bottom. “Unholy” explores the intersection of disability and Jewish identity. As they discuss the film, Daisy shares the complexities of family dynamics surrounding her disability, especially so at the seder-dinner-table.

As a “spoonie” or chronically ill girlie myself, this film made me feel so seen. From family parties, I’ve had to leave early to missing other major life events overall for similar reasons. “Unholy” cuts deep in the most unapologetic, hilarious way possible.

“Life After”

Goodness gracious, this was easily a standout of all-time top investigative documentaries, for me. This was my first intro to also meeting filmmaker Reid Davenport, as well! I ask just about everyone who’s disabled during my interviews. “What’s a reality of disability for you” and Reid almost made me fall to the floor “--you’re trolling the mainstream media!”. I’ve never felt so seen!

As for the film, the layout of the red carpets wasn’t in our favor–so I’ve still, in all honesty–yet to see the ending!

However, I will say that I do hope that they distribute to a streaming service. This film comes with a trigger warning or two and with very good reason! But the impact is what holds for me.

The film follows the story of Reid investigating the current whereabouts of subject Elizabeth Bouvia and her fight for literal battles both physically and legally on death and dignity.

Highly recommend watching this one with a box of tissues and an emotional support bestie or loved one–shout out to both Daisy (Friedman) & my girl Angel Giuffira on that part!!

“Deaf President Now”

This one was a real treat at Sundance. A gratifying reward for one massively unnecessary battle that Gallaudet University– an academic icon of schools as one of the first for deaf and hard of hearing students, without having a deaf president of the school in over 100 years. On my Letterboxd I wrote “Show this in every school” and I think it might be my most liked review to date–humble flex.

“Truckload”

This cheeky British short starring Evie Jones and directed by Aella Jordan-Edge at Tribeca was just a bundle of fun. From stars including THE doctor herself, Jodie Whittaker (“Doctor Strange”--good looks to our friend Steve Way for IMMEDIATELY flagging this to my attention) to “Game of Thrones”’ own “Gendry” Joe Dempsie—and disability representation to boot. We are HERE for the positive representation of disability-intimacy, my people. Especially with certified cuties, on board! Thanks for the condom handouts too, babes–creme de la creme of calling cards IMHO, as well. Cheers on a story, that was purely well done!

The future of disability representation on screen

As has been up over the past few years we’ve seen an increase of disability storytelling in mainstream media. MORE MINORITY VOICES, PLEASE? FOR THE LOVE OF REPRESENTATION.

Festivals & Disability-community-impact, from top to bottom

Reelabilities

Takes the cake on accessibility, audience awareness, verbiage, panels, and more.

Reelabilities in comparison to the other festivals is what I feel like I traveled the many thousands of miles to find. Even better, it was in “my own backyard”.

As for overall accessibility, panels & their summit—top tier content, right here. Enough of the same ol’ (and frankly tired) lonely “why representation is important to me” panels, they’re so early 2010’s, at best. Reelabilities is the gamechanger here and all other fests should take note!!

Sundance

She’s got some grit, girl. As far as film selections go, I’m very familiar with the history of disability representation at the festival. From launching films and filmmakers in our community into Oscars-territory to revealing the true nitty-gritty-nature of the disabled lived experience, I think Sundance is true to its word on what it means to want to do better, year after year.

I will say that they don’t hold back at Sundance but in the best way. It was along the lines of being enough to satisfy the disabled-film-pallet… though I’m the kinda girl who won’t shy away from saying that maybe I even might’ve wanted a little more?

Tribeca

This one I’ve had to sit on for some time, with an overall decent consensus. I was first introduced to attending T) Tribeca last summer, when I was invited to attend the Easterseals Disability panel & corresponding networking mixer on the Spring Street Studios rooftop.

This is a group of people that I know when I walk into the room is literal electricity (truthfully” most of us are either battery-powered/ bionic or on-wheels). The panel on representations then & now were essentially similar in that the content didn’t really stray.

Though I did especially love this year’s fresh face of panelists including but not limited to my new colleague and friend Isaac Zablocki of Reelabilities & POWERHOUSE of an advocate, performer, and consultant (not to mention bias of a proud-friend) Jenna Bainbridge. The “Going off of what (they) said” was so good that I don’t think any of us wanted this year’s to end!

So the panel and following cocktail hour were very similar but always appreciated not only being in a room with my people but also having a major film festival’s support in our work(s)? Even better.

Criticisms: It was beneficial to me as a film reviewer to have been able to share some time to physically chat person-to-person with a lot of my mentors who were in the room that the panel.

While omitting names, I will share this–that their words of wisdom came down to these:

“Sometimes people just don’t know any better”,
“We’ll give them the grace to do so”
… but also that “money talks”

Which brings me to the film selections. [insert exhale] It was great having the time to watch a lot of the films as screeners, with thanks to the many PR teams that we’ve corresponded with. I won't say which festival but at one point I did have to say no to covering a film that what against my morals, as a reviewer.

While I’m all here for supporting depictions of following medical research as documentary work.. However, there's something to be said for documentaries that have been overdone.

Something that many of us in the disability community are absolutely exhausted from is the representations of "inspiration porn" or depictions of people with disabilities as your entertainment for feel-good stories.

I’m tired of having to say it but put it on my gravestone, if you have to. I will die on this hill. We are not just here to be your inspiration, your superheroes/“have superpowers”, or any of that nonsense.. our time will come, we’ll “give them grace” but it's only a matter of time.

@whereswaldman chats with the team about the significance of seeing disability representation (on the carpet) and on screen! Including the casting of infamous actress Ruth Codd as Phlegma

SO very much more to come, stay tuned!!

#Httyd #HowToTrainYourDragon #Tribeca2025 @tribeca #AuthenticRepresentation #RepresentationMatters #LimbDifference #LimbDifferenceAwareness #DisabilityPride #Toothless #Hiccup #Amputee #Amputees #Prosthetics #BionicArm

Visionary Filmmaker Elisa Richards, took this year’s Easterseals Disability Film Challenge task of creating a suspenseful thriller in one singular take. Richards & co-star, Samantha Tokita lead the way through this chilling-tale.

“We blocked, rehearsed & shot this 5-minute film in one day. As the film's director and one of the key cast, I relied heavily on the teamwork of my crew.” A word that they often referred to as “choreography — and with the use of a stand-in for Richards— their team of 10 relied heavily on rehearsal, so that while filming, the crew could execute the dialogue, camera movements & lighting adjustments to create one cohesively compelling short film.

Richards and Tokita are no strangers to this challenge, with teammates including: Cinematographer Seazer Salazar, Editor George Thomson & more! 12/15 takes was the lucky number for their final product. Check out the film below—commenting, liking, engaging & sharing will benefit all who are involved int this epic ultimate take!

Link to film:

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, folks. Nope, not Christmas & not your favorite podcaster’s birthday — it’s THE AWARENESS CAMPAIGN for the 2025 Easterseals Disability Film Challenge (EDFC)!

Now, originally my participation on a film’s team was not in the plans, this year, as I was preparing to head to cover this year’s Reelabilities Film Festival NY, as press. However, for this multi-award-winning EDFC alum, the universe often works in very funny ways!

What WAS planned is an extra special episode of Disability Reality Podcast with my friend & “Good Bad Things” leading-man, Danny Kurtzman— which should still be launching, later in the week— another man, named Danny (Gomez), one of my nearest and dearest friends and colleagues gave me a ring! “I want to cast you in my project”.

Introducing “The Deadline” — “It’s not a wrap until someone’s kidnapped.”

”When a notoriously unreliable production assistant is tasked with delivering the only copy of a film’s footage, he’s kidnapped en route and must escape, outwit his captor, and survive to deliver the hard drive before the clock runs out—and they miss - The Deadline.”

[Content Warning: Mild Violence, Medical Devices both damaged and utilized]

Some if you may recognize Gomez from his Off-Broadway debut in “All of Me” alongside the infamous Kyra Sedgwick. Which gave Danny the brilliant idea, to cast Kyra (and husband Kevin Bacon’s) son Travis Bacon (Roadrunner Records, composer for Amazon Prime’s The Bondsman, which premiered April 3rd), as their twisted antagonist.

Bacon, who also composed the film’s score, along with the film is launching “Die, Die, Die,” —with co-writer Kevin Stafford (Victory Records, The Second City)—the film’s featured end-credits song & soundtrack, alongside the short film’s online premiere! You can listen to the music on Spotify, here.

As an added bonus, according to Stafford 100% of the song’s proceeds will be going to RAMP’D (Recording Artists and Music Professionals with Disabilities). a professional platform equipping the music and live entertainment industry with disability inclusive tools, programming and strategy.

More from Behind the Scenes, on set:

While Producer/Director/Actor Danny Gomez and Producer/Writer/AD/Actor(among many other roles) Natalie D’Alacio prepared for their main shoot in LA— I was off to shoot my cameo in a studio in Jersey, off of Caesar’s Casino Resort at the ACX1 Pier, inside Artist’s Playground. I even had a fun game of “where’s Waldman’s scene?” with my instagram followers, that day.

All this to say that outside of my obvious bias—per my cameo & 3 seconds of fame —I am SO beyond proud of Danny, Nat & team for pulling off one HILARIOUS thriller.

Take a look behind the scenes with photos & be sure to support the film by watching, sharing, liking, commenting and engaging overall, until April 21st, when the Awareness Campaign concludes.

Our principal cast sits in & alongside Danny Gomez’s car. From the left, in the driver’s seat is Danny J Gomez, on the ground, seated is Natalie D’alacio, to her left/ our right is Travis Bacon, kneeling. All three are smiling to the camera

The cast & crew photo (sans yours-truly) on set in California

Melanie Waldman, wearing a red dress is seated in front of a green screen, goes over her news-cast/lines for her scene, for the short film. A small dog, “Millie” (not in the final film) walks by.

#TheDeadlineEDFC #DisTeaPod #CertifiedHotTea #EDFC2025 #disabilityfilmchallenge #12thAnnual #DisabilityFilm #DisabilityStories #DisabilityInclusion #filmmakers #accessible #DisabilityRepresentation #UniqueStories #FilmIndustry #Easterseals #ExpandTheConversation #SpreadtheWord

In this episode of the Disability Reality Podcast, host Melanie Waldman shares her personal experiences with disability, health challenges, and the impact of reality TV on her life. 

Joined by guest Jillian (Ilana) Curwin, they discuss the representation of disability in media, particularly in reality TV--focusing in on their favorite Bravo shows--and how these portrayals affect public perception and personal experiences. 

They explore memorable moments of disability representation, the importance of community, and the evolving narrative around disability in reality television. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of disability representation in reality television, particularly focusing on the challenges faced by individuals with invisible disabilities. 

They discuss the impact of misunderstanding chronic illnesses, the importance of accurate representation, and the role of humor as a coping mechanism. The conversation also touches on accessibility in real estate, the intersection of wealth and disability, and the potential for future reality shows to include diverse representations of disability.

Time stamps

00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates

01:39 The Reality of Disability and Media Representation

02:55 Connecting Through Shared Experiences

04:41 The Role of Reality TV in Disability Awareness

10:53 Bravo and Its Impact on Personal Lives

19:19 Disability Representation in Reality TV

22:54 Memorable Moments of Disability Representation

30:42 Understanding Invisible Disabilities

33:31 The Impact of Misunderstanding Chronic Illness

36:23 Top Moments of Disability Representation in Reality TV

39:30 Humor and Disability: A Coping Mechanism

42:17 Accessibility in Real Estate: A Case Study

46:22 The Intersection of Wealth and Disability

50:23 Imagining Disability in Reality Shows

54:21 The Future of Disability Representation on Bravo

#DisabilityRealityPodcast #DisTeaPod #DisTeaPods #disability #DEIA #Section504 #DisabilityonBroadway #DisabilityAwareness #DisabilityonBravo #DisabilityRepresentation #ProtectDEI #ProtectSection504 #SendIt 

Jillian Mercado (she/her) shares her journey from the fashion industry to acting, particularly her role inThe L Word. She discusses the importance of representation for disabled and queer individuals in media, her personal connection to her character, and the impact of her experiences on her identity.

The discussion also touches on her transformative experience with Broadway, particularly with Wicked, and the significance of historical accuracy in character portrayal. In this conversation, Jillian Mercado discusses the importance of representation for disabled individuals in media and fashion.

She emphasizesthe need for authentic casting and the integration of adaptive design in fashion. The impact of COVID-19 on creative processes and the importance of community in the industry are also highlighted. Jillian shares her aspirations for the future of adaptive fashion and the significance of finding joy in disability, advocating for unity and representation in all creative & fluid fields.

00:00Introduction and Rundown from Sundance Experience03:57The Impact of Disability Identity on Fashion06:16Character Development and Personal Connection09:04The Importance of Representation in Media12:00Wicked: A Life-Changing Experience14:51Nessa Rose and Representation in Wicked18:09Historical Accuracy in Character Portrayal19:35Representation in Fictional Worlds20:26The Aesthetics of Adaptive Design21:01Fashion and Disability: A New Perspective22:49The Impact of COVID-19 on Creative Processes24:15Navigating Intimacy and Safety on Set25:12The Essence of Queer Joy in Storytelling26:37Building Community in the Industry28:03Future Aspirations in Fashion30:04Authentic Representation in Media31:21Finding Joy in Disability32:10The Power of Community34:13The Importance of Authentic Casting35:37Unity in Advocacy

They discuss the importance of representation in media, share memories from theater and Broadway, and delve into their coping mechanisms, including substance use.

The conversation also touches on upcoming projects, aspirations for Sundance, and the significance of storytelling and advocacy in their lives.

#DisTeaPod #DisabilityRealityPodcast #DisabilityInMedia #SteveWay #Ramy Keywords #DisabilityRepresentation #DisabilityInMedia #DisabilityInHollywood #Advocacy #DisabilityInTheater #Sundance

Here's where we'll cover everything from pop-culture- to spicier subjects! This podcast is not rated for children, or teens, or even non-disableds. Disabled supervision is advised!

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Youtube

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHhWSkWtMMVkdWGA1xyLg0g 

Little Miss Representation

https://youtu.be/x3O2le32fa4?si=dO9S4uCKx9x4Yzea 

https://www.onairmelaniewaldman.com/podcasts

@disabilityrealitypod x @whereswaldman on instagram & TikTok

It’s the second to last day of the year, and as I’m prepping for both—the next episode of “Little Miss Representation” & the official launch of my “Disability Reality Podcast”— I teased that the very first episode with my dear friend, Steve Way (“Ramy,” Hulu) announces that not only will there be new episodes, fresh in 2025.. but also that I’m going to forking Sundance!!

Saying it doesn’t quite feel real, but it wildly is! Not only that but I’ll be attending with two of my very closest friends who work in the industry, as well. I know we’re absolutely going to crush it, as a media team, but also keep one another grounded af.

Reflecting on this year reaffirms that all I’ve ever wanted, I recognize that I’ve worked my butt off for this, and finally feel settled in enough that I do finally feel like I legitimately belong in this field of work. Welcome to the behind the scenes of my niche!

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