Our Story

It all began with an idea from Dr. Sheng-Han Kuo of Columbia University, one of the leading US physicians specializing in ataxia. People with ataxia face multi-faceted challenges, both physical and emotional. While exercises are known to be helpful for ataxia, intense exercises without variation are difficult to engage in in the long run and may only improve the physical dimension of ataxia. People with ataxia are entitled to fun, joy, and inspiration. The Broadway Theater District in New York City is a global center for creating joyful experiences via music and theater. During the COVID-19 pandemic, all the Broadway theaters were shut down. To overcome the barriers that this condition created, The Cerebellar Ataxia team at Columbia University in 2020 started Zoom-based interactive performing arts classes based on neurocognitive neuro-rehabilitation principles. We call this program Broadway for Ataxia because it utilizes the talents of the Broadway community to create magical experiences for people living with ataxia.

Meet the Team

Sheng-Han Kuo

President

Nadia Amokrane

Executive Director

Haidyn Emmerich

Program Manager

Amy Arroyo

Program Coordinator

Hannah Lee

Program Coordinator

Evelyn Chang

Social Media Director