“Disability doesn’t have to be seen as unfortunate,” says Arts Access Executive Director Betsy Ludwig. This month, the organization’s anniversary celebration, A Series of Fortunate Events, will prove just that. Beginning May 3, Ludwig says the nonprofit’s goal is to foster opportunities for the Raleigh community to engage with artists with disabilities as they perform and showcase their work around downtown. “Often people with disabilities are portrayed in negative lights. And we wanted to highlight all the amazing things that go on in the arts with people with disabilities.”

The series of six events will touch on everything from theatre to music to visual art, embracing the performer while fundraising for Arts Access’ cause. “We want to show the community that it’s not difficult to include all types of people in the arts. The arts are a very dynamic and powerful place, and can be especially welcoming to those who are sometimes marginalized and excluded.” Performances are in popular venues including Lincoln Theatre and Theatre in the Park. “We want to make Raleigh’s thriving arts community accessible and welcoming.” Learn more about the events at right.  –Catherine Currin