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UpBeat!

Central Florida Community Arts’ UpBeat! Program provides an artistic platform for youth, teen, and adult exceptional learners and neurodivergent performers. The UpBeat! Theatre Troupe produces multiple performances each year, including both short films and live shows. CFCArts is proud to holistically support our performers and showcase their incredible talent and potential for the entire community.

UpBeat! performers are given opportunities appropriate to their individual needs that encourage and challenge them in ways not typically available in a mainstream community theatre program. CFCArts relies on an interprofessional team of board-certified music therapists, arts in health practitioners, and teaching artists to develop the program based on the individual needs of our performers.

Please email upbeat@cfcarts.com, and our team will reach out to you to help get you started.

NOTE: Registration for Fall 2025 UpBeat! will open June 2.

    UpBeat!
    UpBeat! Jr.
    UpBeat! Virtual

    The UpBeat! Approach

    We strive to give each performer a meaningful experience that showcases their unique abilities and allows our whole community to see their incredible talent and potential. We employ the following methods:

    • Customized scripts are created to match the skills and needs of performers within each show
    • Customized rehearsal structure that is uniquely modified to the needs of the cast, to best support group cohesion and social skill development
    • We teach creative skills in acting, singing, and dance in a modified format that is accessible in both skill level and pace
    • We use teleprompter theater to support students in doing their best in performances by reducing the stress of line memorization
    • We support life skills including communication, self-expression, emotional regulation, and general confidence building.
    • Additionally, we are happy to provide additional support for individuals on a case-by-case basis. 

    If you have any questions about UpBeat! or wondering if this group is right for you or your performer, please email: upbeat@cfcarts.com.

    Program Partners

    • Down Syndrome Association of Central Florida | Members of DSACF can receive a full scholarship to participate in Upbeat! Contact us today to find out how!
    • Family Café
    • Family Café, Youth Summit

    Special Thanks for Support From:

    • Culture Builds Florida
    • DSACF

    The 2025 seasons of UpBeat! are supported by the Doug Flutie. Jr Foundation for Autism.

    Spring 2025 UpBeat! – Level Up

    For students ages 16+ wanting an in-person rehearsal and live performance experience.

    Season Kickoff: Thursday, February 6, from 6-7:30 p.m.
    Rehearsals: Fridays from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
    Season: February 6 – May 1 *
    Location: Broadway United Methodist Church (406 E Amelia St, Orlando, FL 32803)

    Performance:
    Level Up
    May 17 at 5 p.m.
    May 18 at 3 p.m.
    St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church (1600 S Orlando Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789)

    Please email upbeat@cfcarts.com with any questions.

    Registration

    Registration for Spring 2025 UpBeat! is full. Please email upbeat@cfcarts.com to join the waitlist.

    • If you are new to UpBeat! and would like to meet with the director, please contact upbeat@cfcarts.com so that we can schedule a virtual meet and greet before the first rehearsal! This is not mandatory before joining.
    • If you are a member of the Down Syndrome Association of Central Florida (DSACF), please register with DSACF to fill out their scholarship form before registering with CFCArts!
    • If you have any additional questions, please email upbeat@cfcarts.com.
    Performance

    UpBeat! In Person Performance Schedule (Live Performance)

    A magical game console thrusts a group of heroes into the adventure of an extra-lifetime. Join the UpBeat! Theatre Troupe as they run, fight, dance, and sing their way through classic video game genres. From Mario to magic, 40 performers across screen and stage will take you on a journey like no other.

    Tech Rehearsals:
    Thursday, May 8, from 6-8 p.m.
    Broadway United Methodist Church (406 E Amelia St, Orlando, FL 32803)

    Tuesday, May 13, from 6-8 p.m.
    Wednesday, May 14, from 6-8 p.m.
    Thursday, May 15, from 6-8 p.m.
    Friday, May 16, from 6-8 p.m. (This will be an invited dress rehearsal. Exact times may change.)
    St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church (1600 S Orlando Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789)

    Performances:
    Saturday, May 17 (Call time 3:30 p.m., Show 5 p.m.)
    Sunday, May 18 (Call time 1:30 p.m., Show 3 p.m.)
    St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church (1600 S Orlando Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789)

    Dues

    Dues will be for all music, rehearsals, community performances, and performances for UpBeat! from February through May 2025. Please see pricing below:

    Spring 2025 Dues: $175

    Payment options are included in the Registration Form. Financial assistance and payment plans are also available. Please email upbeat@cfcarts.com with any questions.

    NOTE: DSACF members need to register with DSACF before registering with CFCArts.

    Attendance Requirement

    Starting this season, we ask that all members attend 85% of rehearsals (12 of 14 rehearsals) and all tech rehearsals (4 rehearsals).

    We structure UpBeat! So that we have small scenes for each member to shine. When members are absent, it greatly affects the rest of the group.

    If a member is to miss more than the allotted 2 absences, we may have to minimize their role in the show or recast as appropriate, depending on the situation. If there is a reason that you would need to miss more than the allotted absences, please reach out to us. We are happy to work with you on a case-by-case basis, as we know that life happens.

    For any last-minute absences, please let us know as soon as possible, preferably at least 2 hours before rehearsal. Starting this fall, the weekly reminder email will include a link to a survey that you can fill out to let us know about any upcoming absences.

    UpBeat! Is a team effort, and we work best when we are all together!

    Spring 2025 UpBeat! Jr. – Level Up

    For students ages 8-15 wanting an in-person rehearsal and live performance experience. This course is taught by a board-certified music therapist providing integrated music interventions to support student development in addition to preparing a theatrical performance.

    Season Kickoff: Wednesday, February 5, from 6-7 p.m.
    Rehearsals: Fridays from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.
    Season: February 5 – May 7 *
    Location: DSACF Center (204 Wymore Rd, Winter Park, FL 32789)

    Performance:
    Level Up
    May 17 at 5 p.m.
    May 18 at 3 p.m.
    St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church (1600 S Orlando Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789)

    Please email upbeat@cfcarts.com with any questions.

    Registration

    Registration for Spring 2025 UpBeat! is full. Please email upbeat@cfcarts.com to join the waitlist.

    • If you are new to UpBeat! and would like to meet with the director, please contact upbeat@cfcarts.com so that we can schedule a virtual meet and greet before the first rehearsal! This is not mandatory before joining.
    • If you are a member of the Down Syndrome Association of Central Florida (DSACF), please register with DSACF to fill out their scholarship form before registering with CFCArts!
    • If you have any additional questions, please email upbeat@cfcarts.com.
    Performance

    UpBeat! Jr. Performance Schedule (Live Performance)

    A magical game console thrusts a group of heroes into the adventure of an extra-lifetime. Join the UpBeat! Theatre Troupe as they run, fight, dance, and sing their way through classic video game genres. From Mario to magic, 40 performers across screen and stage will take you on a journey like no other.

    Tech Rehearsals:
    Wednesday, May 14, from 6:15-7:15 p.m.
    Thursday, May 15, from 6:15-7:15 p.m.
    Friday, May 16, from 6:15-7:15 p.m. (This will be an invited dress rehearsal. Exact times may change.)
    St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church (1600 S Orlando Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789)

    Performances:
    Saturday, May 17 (Call time 4:15 p.m., Show 5 p.m.)
    Sunday, May 18 (Call time 2:15 p.m., Show 3 p.m.)
    St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church (1600 S Orlando Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789)

    Dues

    Dues will be for all music, rehearsals, community performances, and performances for UpBeat! from February through May 2025. Please see pricing below:

    Spring 2025 Dues: $175

    Payment options are included in the Registration Form. Financial assistance and payment plans are also available. Please email upbeat@cfcarts.com with any questions.

    NOTE: DSACF members need to register with DSACF before registering with CFCArts.

    Attendance Requirement

    Starting this season, we ask that all members attend 85% of rehearsals (11 of 13 rehearsals) and all tech rehearsals (3 rehearsals).

    We structure UpBeat! So that we have small scenes for each member to shine. When members are absent, it greatly affects the rest of the group.

    If a member is to miss more than the allotted 2 absences, we may have to minimize their role in the show or recast as appropriate, depending on the situation. If there is a reason that you would need to miss more than the allotted absences, please reach out to us. We are happy to work with you on a case-by-case basis, as we know that life happens.

    For any last-minute absences, please let us know as soon as possible, preferably at least 2 hours before rehearsal. Starting this fall, the weekly reminder email will include a link to a survey that you can fill out to let us know about any upcoming absences.

    UpBeat! Is a team effort, and we work best when we are all together!

    Spring 2025 UpBeat! Virtual – Level Up

    For students ages 16+ wanting or needing an online/Zoom option with performance via pre-recorded short film.

    Season Kickoff: Monday, February 3, from 6:30-7:30 p.m.
    Rehearsals: Mondays from 6:30-7:30 p.m.
    Season: February 3 – May 5 *
    Location: ZOOM

    Performance:
    Level Up
    Short films will be premiered as part of the LIVE performances
    May 17 at 5 p.m.
    May 18 at 3 p.m.
    St. John Evangelical Lutheran Church (1600 S Orlando Ave, Winter Park, FL 32789)

    Please email upbeat@cfcarts.com with any questions.

    Registration

    Registration for Spring 2025 UpBeat! is full. Please email upbeat@cfcarts.com to join the waitlist.

    • If you are new to UpBeat! and would like to meet with the director, please contact upbeat@cfcarts.com so that we can schedule a virtual meet and greet before the first rehearsal! This is not mandatory before joining.
    • If you are a member of the Down Syndrome Association of Central Florida (DSACF), please register with DSACF to fill out their scholarship form before registering with CFCArts!
    • If you have any additional questions, please email upbeat@cfcarts.com.
    Performance

    UpBeat! Virtual Performance Schedule (Short Film Option)

    A magical game console thrusts a group of heroes into the adventure of an extra-lifetime. Join the UpBeat! Theatre Troupe as they run, fight, dance, and sing their way through classic video game genres. From Mario to magic, 40 performers across screen and stage will take you on a journey like no other.

    Filming Time Frame: Students will be filmed individually by appointment via Zoom between April 7-26.
    Premiere: Short films will be premiered as part of the LIVE performances on May 17 and 18.

    See an example of an UpBeat! Virtual short film performance!

    Dues

    Dues will be for all music, rehearsals, community performances, and performances for UpBeat! from February through May 2025. Please see pricing below:

    Spring 2025 Dues: $175

    Payment options are included in the Registration Form. Financial assistance and payment plans are also available. Please email upbeat@cfcarts.com with any questions.

    NOTE: DSACF members need to register with DSACF before registering with CFCArts.

    Attendance Requirement

    Starting this season, we ask that all members attend 85% of rehearsals (12 of 14 rehearsals) and a scheduled recording session.

    We structure UpBeat! So that we have small scenes for each member to shine. When members are absent, it greatly affects the rest of the group.

    If a member is to miss more than the allotted 2 absences, we may have to minimize their role in the show or recast as appropriate, depending on the situation. If there is a reason that you would need to miss more than the allotted absences, please reach out to us. We are happy to work with you on a case-by-case basis, as we know that life happens.

    For any last-minute absences, please let us know as soon as possible, preferably at least 2 hours before rehearsal. Starting this fall, the weekly reminder email will include a link to a survey that you can fill out to let us know about any upcoming absences.

    UpBeat! Is a team effort, and we work best when we are all together!

    Hear from an UpBeat! Member!

    Meet Edwin, a passionate young man with Down syndrome, whose story in the UpBeat! program reflects the power of community, inclusion, and creativity. Through UpBeat!, Edwin has found a space to grow, learn new skills, and chase his dream of becoming a professional actor—all while supporting and inspiring his friends.

    Watch Edwin’s journey and see how programs like UpBeat! provide life-changing opportunities for people of all abilities. Donate today to help us continue offering inclusive arts programs that make a difference. Interested in joining us? Register for the next season of UpBeat! above and become part of this amazing community.

    Meet the UpBeat! Team

    Edwin Alvarado

    Edwin Alvarado

    UpBeat! Member Ambassador

    Sara Breitfelder

    Sara Breitfelder

    UpBeat! Program Manager

    Christina Closs

    Christina Closs

    UpBeat! Jr. Assistant Director, UpBeat! Rehearsal Assistant

    Caroline Del Rey, MM, MT-BC, NICU-MT, NMT

    Caroline Del Rey, MM, MT-BC, NICU-MT, NMT

    UpBeat! Jr. Associate Artistic Director

    William Tayek

    William Tayek

    UpBeat! Associate Artistic Director

    Beckie Ward

    Beckie Ward

    UpBeat! Member Ambassador

    Our History

    One of the key missions of Central Florida Community Arts has been to make high-quality arts programming accessible to everyone in Central Florida, regardless of age, ability, or available resources. Through our partnership with the Down Syndrome Association of Central Florida, we recognized a critical need in our community. While performing arts programs for individuals with physical and cognitive disabilities existed, many offerings concluded once the participant reached the age of twenty-one.

    Recognizing the importance of providing these programs CFCArts created the UpBeat! Theatre Troupe in 2018, providing performance opportunities to our local teen and adult exceptional learners. Our purpose was to provide an inclusive space for all members of our community with varying abilities to build creative skills such as acting, singing, and dance in addition to supporting life skills including verbal and non-verbal communication, self-expression, emotional regulation, and group cohesion. In 2020 the program developed a virtual short film option in response to COVID-19, which has continued to serve folks outside of our geographic region including participation from four other states. And in 2021, we created a youth-based program serving ages 8-15 upon requests from parents in our local community.

    UpBeat! has received many accolades including winning the 2020 International Hamilton Arts & Innovation Award and a prestigious grant in 2021 from the National Endowment for the Arts. Additionally, UpBeat! has been featured in 2021-2025 at the Family Cafe, Florida’s largest disabilities summit, in addition to being shared as a program model at the National Organization for Arts & Health Conference (2021), Berklee College of Music’s ABLE Assembly (2022), and at the MedPACt’s Global Health Conference hosted by the University of Central Florida (2023). UpBeat! also won the Spirit of Inclusion Award from the Down Syndrome Association of Central Florida (2023).

    Attend a Show

    See us perform at an upcoming show!

    View Upcoming Shows

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