Disney Developing Disability Dance Film ‘Grace’
Walt Disney Studios is developing a new dance drama film called “Grace”. which will centre around a promising 17-year-old dancer, who is left paralyzed from the waist down, after getting into a debilitating car accident; with the help of an exacting artistic director, she becomes the star of a premiere dance company.
The project is being developed by Grammy nominee Freddy Wexler, who is producing the project and co-writing the screenplay along with Kiera Allen. Also working on the project is Chelsie Hill, who is a professional dancer, community leader, content creator, and Founder/CEO of Rollettes, a Los Angeles based wheelchair dance team that’s committed to education, disability representation, and female empowerment. She will be working on the project as an executive producer and as a consultant.
In a statement to THR, Freddy Wexler said:
“Grace’s journey is a reflection of so many real-life dancers, artists and athletes who push themselves to the limits. I am honored to be a part of the incredible team helping to further authentic representation and inclusive storytelling for the disabled community.”
Kiera Allen added:
“I’m so excited to be working with Freddy, Chelsie, and Disney on this project. Grace is a beautiful story about self-expression, identity, and what it means to be an artist. And as a disabled artist myself, I’m proud to be part of this step forward for authentic representation.”
Chelsie Hill also spoke about the project:
“This story will inspire anyone who thinks they’re limited from pursuing their wildest dreams — I wish I’d had a film like this when I was first injured.”
It’s not yet been revealed if this film will be released theatrically or if it will be a Disney+ Original.