Theatre eXceptional gives Bay Area performers with disabilities a spotlight

A local theater company is transforming the Tampa arts scene by ensuring performers with disabilities have an opportunity to take center stage. Theatre eXceptional founding storyBrianna Larson co-founded Theatre eXceptional in 2015, inspired by her older brother Tyler, who has Down syndrome. After performing together as children, Larson watched her own theatrical career advance through college and professional work while her brother's opportunities came to a halt."He said, 'Man, I really miss doing theater,'" Larson said. "The two of us just kept talking and decided, let's get some friends together and do a play. It has grown into so much more than either one of us ever anticipated."Now in its 11th season, the company provides a full season of theatrical performances alongside two semesters of education classes designed specifically for adults with disabilities.Disabled performers self-expressionFor cast members, the stage serves as a powerful venue for self-expression and connection t