Wooster High School’s Best Buddies chapter brought joy and empowerment to campus last week, hosting the world’s first all-Down Syndrome improv troupe, The Improvaneers, for performances that highlighted abilities over disabilities and fostered new friendships.
The event, held Feb. 5, 2026, featured a school-day show for middle and high school Best Buddies members, drama club, acting classes and visitors from Ida Sue School, followed by an evening performance for families and the community.
“The Improvaneers are a wonderful example that we must all focus on the abilities, rather than the disabilities of people,” said Lauren Michel, Best Buddies advisor. “I hope the Improvaneers show encourages viewers to presume competency for every individual they meet – regardless of diagnoses, looks or socioeconomic factors.”
Best Buddies’ mission in action
Best Buddies, an international organization, aims to end social, economic and physical isolation for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) through one-to-one friendships. At Wooster High, the chapter’s 83 members have formed 25 “buddy pairs” this year…