The Friedberg JCC in Oceanside rolled out the red carpet for its annual Red Carpet Talent Show and Dinner on April 16, bringing together community members for an evening of entertainment, advocacy and inclusion in support of adults with disabilities.
This year’s theme, “Finding Your Voice,” highlighted performers sharing personal stories through music, dance, comedy and art, emphasizing self-expression and empowerment. Proceeds from sponsorships directly supported the event, while donated items were used to create themed raffle baskets for the evening’s auction.
The showcase featured a range of performances from participants in the JCC’s self-advocacy programs. Adam Goldberg demonstrated yoga and boxing, Catherine Schexnayder performed “My Favorite Things” from “The Sound of Music,” Elise Olsen combined poetry with dance, and Ian Schoenberg delivered a high-energy routine set to music by Michael Jackson. Additional acts included comedy and musical performances, along with a DJ who provided music throughout the evening.
Marcy Hallerman, senior program officer of social services at the Friedberg JCC, said the event has grown significantly since its inception.
“Back in 2014, we had a vision to create the self-advocacy group,” Hallerman said. “From there, individuals with disabilities, with their facilitator, decided they wanted to do a red-carpet event. They created that.”
The first event was held in person in 2018 before shifting to a virtual format during the pandemic. It has since returned as an annual in-person fundraiser, while a monthly virtual talent show continues.
This year’s program included seven performers, along with a DJ, and was supported by about eight volunteers from Ohel Children’s Home and Family Services Catering was provided through the JCC’s Harvey’s Café, with individuals with disabilities actively involved in preparing the meal.
“They prepped the food, went with the staff to shop for it and cooked everything,” Hallerman said.”
Participants were primarily selected from the JCC’s self-advocacy group, also known as the Special Advisory Coalition (SPEAC), with additional slots opened to others involved in JCC programs. Acts are not typically auditioned unless demand exceeds capacity, though performers rehearse and refine their presentations ahead of the show.
In addition to stage performances, the event featured an art gallery displaying work created by participants throughout the year. Pieces were labeled with the artist’s name and medium, offering another platform for creative expression.
Planning for the event begins several months in advance, typically in December or January, and involves coordination between JCC staff and program leaders to organize performances, secure sponsors and arrange logistics.
Hallerman said the talent show reflects the JCC’s broader mission of inclusion and community engagement.
“One of the things that we try to be at the JCC — and it’s in our mission — is inclusive,” she said. “We believe that people with disabilities should be out in the community, participating in programs. Doing the talent show really gives them a chance to shine. It gives them a chance for the community to see how talented they really are.”
For many performers, the night represents more than entertainment — it is an opportunity to be heard.
“It really gives them that opportunity to speak out and empowers them,” Hallerman said.
