Chris Samek: Actor
Chris Samek loves acting with the desire and curiosity to learn and experience more. “Acting is my passion. I get motivated with acting. I like the character development. I want to share my characters with the world. I want to learn a lot about movies, and how they are made. I want to learn how…
The Importance of Early Intervention and Programs at GiGi’s Playhouse Buffalo
At GiGi’s Playhouse Buffalo, we believe every child and adult deserve the opportunity to thrive, grow, and shine in their own unique way. For families of children with Down syndrome, early intervention can make a world of difference and that’s exactly why our free programs are here. From the moment a family first walks through…
GiGi’s Playhouse’ 1st Annual ‘Fall Family Fun’ Event!
Fall is in the air, and GiGi’s Playhouse Buffalo is celebrating with our very first Fall Family Fun Event! Join us on Saturday, September 27th from 4:00pm – 7:00pm right here at the Playhouse for an evening filled with laughter, connection, and community. This exciting new tradition is the perfect way to kick off Down…
The 2nd Annual GiGi’s Christmas: The 1st Christmas Party of the Year
Buffalo, it’s time to shine a little brighter this holiday season! On Saturday, November 1st, GiGi’s Playhouse Buffalo invites you to The Atrium @ Rich’s for our 2nd Annual GiGi’s Christmas: The First Christmas Party of the Year! This will be a night filled with magic, music, dinner, dancing, and holiday cheer, all to benefit…
Emily’s Dream: One-Stop Shop for Down Syndrome
Emily Mondschein’s dream of a one-stop shop for Down syndrome, GiGi’s Playhouse Buffalo, is celebrating its fifth anniversary this month. “Five years ago, I wanted to start a grass roots organization dedicated to Down syndrome, because there was nothing locally,” Emily stated in an interview on August 19th. “I was intrigued by GiGi’s Playhouse. So.…
GiGi’s Playhouse of Buffalo Celebrates Their 5th Anniversary!
This year marks five incredible years since GiGi’s Playhouse Buffalo opened its doors as Playhouse #49, bringing free, research-based educational and therapeutic programs to individuals with Down syndrome and their families in Western New York. Buffalo Toronto Public Media A Bold Beginning Founded with vision, passion, and the support of community partners, GiGi’s Playhouse of Buffalo…
The Birth of GiGi’s Playhouse Buffalo
GiGi’s Playhouse Buffalo exists because of The Peter & Elizabeth Tower Foundation. by John Reich In 2019, GiGi’s Playhouse was awarded an initial two-year start-up grant totaling $119,600. “GiGi’s Playhouse got the grant because they submitted a compelling, competitive program and services grant request. In a competitive field of applicants, they rose to the top,”…
I Am a Person Too: Why Showing Up for DEI Matters
by Michael Ferris On June 14th, a community gathered in front of Buffalo’s City Hall to raise their voices against exclusion, misinformation, and harmful rhetoric. Among the signs held high that day, one stood out with a quiet yet powerful message: “I am a person too… D.E.I.” That sign was carried by a young man…
Henry Meets Chris Stapleton
by Joe (Henry’s Dad) Saturday as we are getting ready for the show around 3:45 PM we got a call from the Orchard Park police chief, Pat Fitzgerald. He said he had seen Henry’s video on social media. He reached out to the head of security for George Strait and Chris Stapleton and at that…
How to Talk to Siblings & Non-Disabled Kids About Down Syndrome (And Why You Should)
by Michael Ferris At GiGi’s Playhouse, we believe education and inclusion go hand in hand. One of the most meaningful ways we can build a more accepting world is by having honest, age-appropriate conversations with children, especially siblings and peers about Down syndrome. When kids grow up understanding differences, they grow into adults who embrace…