Houston is set to come alive with a celebration of art, music, and film like no other as the ReelAbilities Houston Film & Arts Festival returns from February 2-23, 2025. For nearly a month, this transformative festival will shine a spotlight on the extraordinary talents, stories, and achievements of people living with disabilities.

Produced annually by the JFS Houston Alexander Institute for Inclusion, in collaboration with the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities, ReelAbilities Houston is more than just a festival—it’s a cultural movement. Through world-class art, award-winning films, music, and inspiring speaker events, the Festival drives home its mission of promoting disability awareness and fostering systemic change across Houston’s families, workplaces, institutions, and communities.

What’s in Store for 2025?

The 2025 Festival promises an engaging lineup of free events designed to captivate audiences and challenge perceptions:

• 🎬 ReelFilm: A selection of award-winning films that share powerful, moving stories about the lives and experiences of individuals with disabilities. Highlights include “Dear Ani,” produced and led by the talented Keith Wasserman.
• 🎤 ReelPeople (formerly UP Abilities): A speaker series that showcases inspiring individuals who break barriers and redefine possibilities.
• 🎶 ReelMusic Concert: A dynamic evening of performances by musicians and artists living with disabilities. Under the leadership of ReelMusic Chair Dee Dee Dochen, this event promises to be both celebratory and unforgettable.
• 🎨 ReelArt: An immersive art showcase featuring works by Celebration Company artists, who express themselves through stunning visual creations.

Educational programs will also take place across schools and workplaces in Houston, ensuring that the message of inclusion resonates deeply throughout the city.

The Faces Behind the Festival

ReelAbilities Houston thrives because of passionate advocates and leaders who dedicate themselves to its success. This year’s Festival Chairs include Jeffrey and Alli Feinstein, with Co-Chairs Jamie Wolf, Sandi Helfman Wolf, and Rori Feldman. Joining them is Angel Ponce, Director of the Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities, whose office plays a key role in amplifying the festival’s impact citywide.

The Festival also spotlights artists and performers who embody the spirit of resilience and creativity. From featured artists like Keith Wasserman to Celebration Company’s talented visual artists and musicians, every individual brings their unique perspective to Houston’s cultural tapestry.

Why ReelAbilities Matters

At its core, ReelAbilities Houston is about creating change. By bringing communities together through art and storytelling, the Festival challenges misconceptions and builds pathways to inclusion. It highlights the beauty of diversity, celebrating people for their talents and stories, not their limitations.

Festival organizers hope to inspire Houston to become a more inclusive, understanding, and vibrant city—one where everyone, regardless of ability, can thrive.

Get Involved

All events—films, art showcases, music performances, and talks—are free and open to the public, making ReelAbilities Houston an accessible experience for all.

For those looking to dive deeper into the Festival’s impact, opportunities are available to connect with key participants, including:

• Jeffrey and Alli Feinstein (2025 Festival Chairs)
• Jamie Wolf, Sandi Helfman Wolf, and Rori Feldman (2025 Co-Chairs)
• Angel Ponce (Director, Mayor’s Office for People with Disabilities)
• Keith Wasserman (Featured Artist and “Dear Ani” creator)
• Celebration Company artists
• ReelMusic performers

Join the Movement

Houston, mark your calendars! The ReelAbilities Houston Film & Arts Festival is more than an event—it’s an invitation to celebrate the power of art, music, and film in building a truly inclusive community. Together, let’s elevate the voices and talents of people with disabilities and create a Houston where everyone belongs.

For more info, visit ReelabilitiesHouston.org