By Robert Jowaiszas
SUFFERN, NY – In a significant collaboration marking the Lafayette Theater’s centennial celebration, the Rockland County Disability Advisory Council (DAC) hosted a special screening of the documentary “Everybody Should Be In A Band” on March 3rd, from 1 to 3 pm. This free admission event, held at the historic Lafayette Theater in Suffern, NY, launched the DAC’s “Think Differently” campaign, a movement aimed at fostering awareness and inclusivity for people of all abilities across Rockland County.
Lynn Harris, Chairperson of the DAC, emphasized that the event was more than a celebration; it was an initiative to enlighten the community. “This is not a fundraiser; it’s an opportunity for us to raise awareness throughout our county with the ‘Think Differently’ initiative,” Harris stated. She further explained the council’s role in advising the Office of People with Disabilities, under the direction of Jen Scott, on matters of inclusivity and accessibility.
The event was supported by the Rockland County Transition Consortium Commission and received commendations from local legislators, including Senator Bill Webber, Congressman Mike Lawler, and Assemblyman Ken Zebrowsky. Their backing signifies a county-wide endorsement of resolutions to support individuals with disabilities.
Jennifer Green, a member of the DAC, shared the purpose behind the screening: “It’s about raising awareness that all people, regardless of ability, deserve dignity, respect, and opportunity.” The Lafayette Theater, owned by Ari Benmosche, generously hosted the event free of charge, further underscoring the community’s commitment to the “Think Differently” campaign.
The documentary, “Everybody Should Be In A Band,” explores the transformative power of music, showcasing individuals with disabilities as they navigate life through their involvement in a band. The film highlights the work of Jeffrey Friedberg, a Nyack-based music and arts therapist who founded “Music for Life,” the creative arts therapy center featured in the documentary.
Before the screening, Senator Bill Webber presented Certificates of Appreciation to DAC members, Jeffrey Friedberg, and Ari Benmosche, who also received a proclamation from the senate recognizing the Lafayette Theater’s 100-year milestone. “Buildings like this are so important to the entire state of New York. Community theaters like this are a treasure,” Senator Webber remarked.
The event not only celebrated the Lafayette Theater’s historic anniversary but also underscored the importance of inclusivity and respect for individuals with disabilities. The audience’s emotional engagement—laughing, crying, and applauding—reflected the profound impact of the “Think Differently” campaign and the universal language of music.
In a heartwarming conclusion to the event, a band featured in the documentary performed live, receiving a standing ovation. The Rock and Rollers are set to perform again at the Elmwood Plaza in Nyack on March 24th from 7 to 8 pm, continuing to spread the message of unity and the joy of music.
This collaboration between the Lafayette Theater and the Rockland County DAC not only marked a historic anniversary but also ignited a community-wide initiative to think and act differently towards disability, proving that indeed, everybody should be in a band.