For more than 20 years, the Ivy Street School has aided the educational, social, and vocational development of adolescents with brain injuries and neurological disabilities. Serving young men and women from the ages of 13 to 22, the Ivy Street School provides academic and life skills education; individual, group, and restorative therapy; recreational activities; and vocational training.
Each year, the Ivy Street School organizes Extravaganza!, an event showcasing the diverse talents of its students. Rehearsals begin as early as January for this summer event, with students playing a large role in deciding which skits and musical numbers will be performed. While Extravaganza! is free to attend, it serves as the school’s primary fundraiser, drawing significant donations which benefit classroom technology, recreational programs, vocational opportunities, and staff professional development.
In 2014, Extravanga! was held at Boston’s Wheelock Family Theatre, an organization that has provided vocational training for many of Ivy Street’s students. The event was attended by families, alumni, and associate organizations such as Partners for Youth with Disabilities, and was emceed by former WCVB-TV meteorologist David Brown. Students’ musical performances were accompanied by the band Flipside, while students also collaborated with magician David Hall and comedian Will Luera to provide a full night of entertainment.