DAVENPORT, Iowa — A new documentary is premiering at the Putnam Museum this month.
"I Am Able" follows the journey of nine Quad Citizens with special needs as they perform in a musical as part of the Penguin Project of the Quad Cities' annual theatre production. The film seeks to spark conversations about inclusion and equity and what it means to destigmatize disabilities.
It premiered on Wednesday, Nov. 2 at the Putnam, complete with a red-carpet event.
Rachael Damm is the project manager and co-chair for QC ABLEd. Her daughter, Halea, is featured in the film. They've been part of the Penguin Project's theatre productions for five years now.
"As a parent of an actor, I mean, it's just, it's nothing that I've ever experienced," Damm said. "It's complete inclusion and acceptance for who you are and who you want to be."
A group of 14 local high schools and Augustana College students assisted in the production of the film over the course of a year. It was produced by Augustana College-based Fresh Films.
"I Am Able" will be playing at the Putnam at 6:30 p.m. through Nov. 13. Half of the proceeds from the ticket sales will benefit several local nonprofit organizations, including The Arc of the Quad Cities, NAMI, Gigi's Playhouse and Penguin Project of the Quad Cities.
Four middle or high schools will also host assemblies later this winter where the film will be showcased and discussed.
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