Where the Stage Belongs to Everyone: The Story of STEP VA

In performing arts, people with disabilities often face daunting barriers that include sensory overload, limited access, and few accommodations. Jan Monroe and her co-founders saw these not as obstacles, but as opportunities. In 2013, they created STEP VA, an organization promising "Sensory + Theatre = Endless Possibilities."

Monroe, a pediatric Speech-Language Pathologist, didn't set out to run a nonprofit. She was simply answering a question she kept hearing from parents at her outpatient clinic. "I was often asked by parents what summer activities were available in the arts for children with disabilities," she recalls. The answer, too often, was: not many.

Monroe and two colleagues—a physical and an occupational therapist—saw the effect of simple accommodations when a weighted bear helped a young girl participate in a musical. Inspired, they launched STEP VA to extend that impact to the broader community.

Today, STEP VA serves around 100 participants and their families, and its annual Musical Experience draws over 800 attendees. In April, performers with disabilities starred in Shrek the Musical, Jr., affirming that the stage belongs to everyone.

"All people can be heard, seen, and have an avenue of self-expression when participating in artistic activities regardless of their abilities or disabilities," Monroe explains. "The arts at a foundational level bridge the gaps between our perceived and real differences." STEP VA's programs are built on this philosophy, emphasizing collaboration, teamwork, and self-advocacy while celebrating what makes each participant unique.

During the 2025 Finding Nemo, Jr. dress rehearsal, a leak caused buckets to scatter across the stage—particularly challenging for the sensory-sensitive cast. Yet, performers, ages 9 to 32, donned ponchos and carried on, demonstrating resilience despite adversity.

It's exactly the kind of moment that encapsulates STEP VA's beloved internal motto. "Expect the unexpected," Monroe says with obvious pride. "It helps everyone to be more flexible when working through challenges or things out of their control." That night in 2025, Just Keep Swimming became more than a song from the show — it became a testament to what these performers are capable of.

For Monroe, these moments are everything. "My greatest inspiration through STEP VA and what brings me the most joy is watching an individual or group of individuals with disabilities overcome a challenge or fear," she says. "I want them to believe they are as capable as I know they are. When I witness that happen, it's truly magical."

Looking ahead, STEP VA has a full calendar for those interested in getting involved. This summer, participants ages 8 and up can join several camps: Tech Camp, focusing on behind-the-scenes production experience, takes place in June; Arts Camp, which explores a variety of artistic activities, also runs in June; and A STEP Beyond, an Adult Arts Camp, is scheduled for July. 

On the fundraising front, STEP VA's fall gala will be held on September 25, 2026, at the Old Silk Mill. The evening features networking opportunities for businesses and community leaders, as well as highlights of STEP VA's work with performers. Sponsorships are available for organizations interested in supporting programs that benefit participants and boost community engagement. More information about events, fundraising efforts, and camp specifics can all be found at www.stepva.org.

Monroe is also quick to extend an open invitation to anyone who hasn't yet experienced what STEP VA offers firsthand. "I would like to challenge all magazine readers to take it a 'STEP' further and attend a STEP VA performance, showcase, or invite us to perform at one of your events — to witness what is possible," she says. "That is how we continue to grow and change perceptions about people with disabilities in our community."

The possibilities, as their name suggests, are truly endless.

Don't miss your chance to make a difference: register for summer camps, purchase tickets to the fall gala, or get involved in other ways at www.stepva.org. Your participation helps create endless possibilities for performers of all abilities.