PHAME is a fine and performing arts academy for adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities. We have been in business since 1984.
On this page you’ll find some basic information about what PHAME is, the “Academy” part of PHAME Academy, and what sort of eligibility guidelines we have for prospective PHAME students. Also you’ll find a list of Frequently Asked Questions (or “FAQ”) below, or for download here.
Thanks so much for your interest in PHAME Academy!
If you have questions about the program or if your family member or constituent is right for PHAME, email Artistic Director Jessica Dart at jdart@phameacademy.org
What is PHAME Academy?
PHAME (Pacific Honored Artists, Musicians, and Entertainers) Academy serves adults (i.e., individuals who are 17 years of age and older) who have developmental and intellectual disabilities. Our mission is to support the development of skills and self-esteem in adults with developmental disabilities through education and participation in the fine and performing arts.
What kind of classes does PHAME offer?
PHAME offers 3 terms (Fall, Winter, and Spring) of 10-11 week classes in Theatre Arts, Music, Visual Art, Creative Writing, and Dance. These classes require registration and regular attendance, as PHAME is not a drop-in program. Course offerings and times may vary from term to term. PHAME also occasionally offers special 2-3 hour Saturday workshops and master classes in various arts disciplines. We do not currently offer Summer term classes. The current class schedule is available on the PHAME website. (http://www.phameacademy.org/blog/school/courses)
Who are PHAME’s students?
The majority of PHAME students have Down Syndrome or are on the Autism spectrum, though we serve individuals with a wide variety of developmental/intellectual disabilities such as Williams Syndrome, TBI, epilepsy, and a range of learning disabilities. Some of these individuals may have physical disabilities such as hearing/vision impairment or limited mobility in addition to their developmental/intellectual disabilities. Our students range in age from 17 to 70. PHAME students all share an interest in the fine and performing arts.
Who teaches PHAME classes?
PHAME is a fine and performing arts academy staffed by arts professionals. Our teachers are trained actors, musicians, writers, artists, and dancers who are eager to share their knowledge with PHAME’s student artists. Though participation in PHAME provides therapeutic benefits for many student artists, PHAME Academy is not a therapy program and our teachers are not certified therapists.
How many classes can I sign up for?
As many or as few as you’d like! It all depends upon your personal schedule and interests, as well as class space availability.
Do I have to pay tuition to attend classes at PHAME?
Yes. PHAME is a non-profit organization that partially relies on tuition dollars for program sustainability. Tuition fees per class range from $55 – $130 per 10-week term (about $5.50 – $13 per class).
Does PHAME offer financial aid for those in need?
Yes! PHAME offers Tuition Assistance for those students unable to pay the full tuition amount. Students in need must apply for tuition assistance on a per term basis, and we ask that each student commit to paying a minimum of 20% of their total tuition. We are committed to making PHAME programs financially viable for all students; therefore 100% of students who request Tuition Assistance will receive it. Please contact the PHAME office for more information about applying for Tuition Assistance, or review PHAME’s tuition-related policies online (http://www.phameacademy.org/blog/school/registration/).
How can I pay my tuition?
Tuition is payable by check or credit/debit card via our online registration store. We do not accept cash. Payments may be made in installments. PHAME is not currently affiliated with any brokerage services.
Is PHAME right for me?
Possibly. Please see PHAME’s Eligibility Guidelines first, then call the office with any questions. (http://www.phameacademy.org/blog/school/eligibility-requirements/).
Can I visit a class before deciding to register?
Yes, please! We strongly encourage all prospective students to visit a class or two, as there is no better way to get a feel for what we do at PHAME. Just call the PHAME office to schedule a visit at least 24 hours in advance. Visitors are welcome to simply observe, but may also enjoy the opportunity to participate in some classroom activities.
Does PHAME provide opportunities for public performance?
Absolutely. During the past two years, PHAME students performed at more than 30 public events and appeared with artists such as Pink Martini, Portland Cello Project, Storm Large, Douglas Webster, Amy Beth Frankel, and the Shanghai Woolies. The 50+ member Choir performs annually at The Grotto, and have appeared at Sand in the City and ZooLights. PHAME also produces an annual full-scale musical. Past productions include Roald Dahl’s Willy Wonka, Grease, Once Upon A Mattress, Beauty and the Beast, 42nd Street, West Side Story, and The Music Man. In March 2012, PHAME completed a tri-county “PHAME…the H is for Honored Tour, which featured our students in all artistic disciplines.
Where is PHAME located? And how can I contact you?
Call the office at 503.764.9718
PHAME classes take place on the campus of Grace Memorial Episcopal Church (1535 NE 17th Ave. – Portland, OR 97232).
PHAME’s administrative offices are located next door to Grace Memorial. The physical office address is 1511 NE 17th Ave. – Portland, OR 97232.
PHAME’s mailing address for all correspondence is: 1631 NE Broadway #134 – Portland, OR 97232.
How can I get to PHAME?
PHAME is easily accessible via public transportation and TriMet Lift. The MAX is within walking distance, and the 9 and 77 buses stop directly outside of Grace Memorial on the corner of NE 17th and Weidler. Those with vehicles may park in the Grace Memorial parking lot on NE 16th and Weidler during PHAME hours. PHAME is not responsible for arranging student transportation.
Is PHAME religiously affiliated?
PHAME Academy is not religiously affiliated. Although we rent our program space from Grace Memorial Church, we are a secular organization and do not align ourselves with a particular faith or denomination.
PHAME’s Non-discrimination Policy, approved and adopted September 20, 2011, states: It is the policy of PHAME Academy that, within the context of our purpose to serve adults with developmental disabilities, our organization does not discriminate in its leadership, staffing, service, or sources of support on the basis of age, gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, national origin, political affiliation, or religious belief.
How do I apply?
- Determine if you meet PHAME’s Eligibility Requirements. Contact a PHAME staff member if you have questions about these requirements.
- Call the PHAME office to set up a class visit and/or a phone meeting with a PHAME staff member. This will help PHAME staff determine your interests and personality so they can assist you in choosing your classes. Please do not register without the pre-approval of a PHAME staff member.
- Complete and submit all necessary paperwork (such as medical and student information forms). Paperwork is available in hard copy from the PHAME office, or for download from the PHAME website (http://www.phameacademy.org/blog/school/registration/).
- Register online for the next available term at store.phameacademy.org.
