Born To Be On Stage!

Our Inspirational Self-Advocate Speaker for the Gala 2025 was Ethan Merola. When we approached him about speaking at our event, his family needed to double-check to ensure it did not coincide with his high school’s spring Drama Club performance. Fortunately, there was no conflict.

Ethan delivered an outstanding speech. We encourage you to watch his performance on Instagram, as he skillfully ad-libbed instead of sticking strictly to his script!

Good evening, my name is Ethan Merola. I am honored to be the self advocate for GiGi’s Playhouse Gala 2025.

I was born and lived in Manhattan until I was 8 years old  and actually participated and went to events at GiGi’s Playhouse in Manhattan before  moving to Ardsley in 2012.

So I was so happy when not long after we moved to Ardsley a GiGi’s Playhouse opened in the village.  I have been attending since it first opened.

I love coming to GiGi’s Playhouse and seeing new faces and making new friends. 

Over the years I have been involved in a number of activities at GiGi’s Playhouse Westchester. 

Some of my favorite activities have been teen tastic, fantastic friends, GiGi’s Kitchen, Yoga and dance. I have also taken advantage of math tutoring.

In GiGi’s Kitchen I made many wonderful dishes including  peppermint bark, soups, and gnocchi .  I learned to be independent and be careful with the oven and stove when it is on 

In yoga at GiGi’s or online it was fun to work with Carolyn. She is so kind to her students. And make me so happy every time I do yoga.

The dance classes I had with Carter helped me when participating in the spring musicals at my high school.  Next week I will be in the musical Into the Woods being performed at the Ardsley High School.  Tickets are still available. 

Over my years at GiGi’s, I have also enjoyed celebrating world down syndrome day by doing the potluck dinner with my friends.  This coming Friday is March 21 – World Down Syndrome Day. 

Finally, I am proud to tell you that this upcoming June I will be graduating from Ardsley High School and will be starting a new chapter in my life as I am going to attend the University of Mount Saint Vincent at their Bridge Program in the fall.

Thank you.

Watch Ethan’s full speech here.