David Harrell is an international award–winning actor, speaker, and disability advocate residing in New York City. Most recently he performed Off- Broadway in the New York Times Critic’s Pick The Healing by Samuel D. Hunter. His short film Lefty & Loosey won Best Film in the 2016 Disability Film Challenge and Best International Actor in the 2016 Focus on Ability Film Festival in Sydney, Australia.
His award-winning solo plays have entertained audiences around the world. He holds a BFA from the University of Southern Mississippi and a MFA from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in theatre performance.
David says: “The goal of my work is to use my story to encourage audiences to recognize the universality of our shared experience and be a catalyst for discussion about broader themes of diversity and inclusion. I relish the opportunity to show that disability is not a heroic obstacle to overcome but a unique aspect of one’s life. Through my work I entertain, enlighten, and educate children to not be defined by limitation, and I help them learn the valuable lessons of acceptance and how to not let circumstances peel away the core of who they are as human beings.”
Grade Levels: Kindergarten–2nd David Harrell always wanted to be a part of playground games, but was only included when the other kids recognized that his prosthetic hook made him perfect for the part of Captain Hook in Peter Pan.
Program Type: Assembly Performances
Grade Levels: 3rd–8th This is a universal story about a not so ordinary life. In this warm, smart, and engaging autobiographical program, David Harrell delivers a hilarious and insightful look at living with a disability.
Program Type: Assembly Performances
Moorestown Friends School
Moorestown Friends School
“I happened to connect with students in 5th through 8th grades after today’s assembly. Some comments in the hallways across all four grade levels included, “Wow, that was such an awesome assembly. I almost started crying at the end.” “He was really interesting, I really liked it!” “That was such an interesting assembly. He was really cool and funny.””
McGinn Elementary
McGinn Elementary
“David's performance is unique and insightful. His storytelling abilities are top-notch and he was able to cast a spell on our audience—they listened to every word. Feedback has been fantastic—from both teachers and kids. Wonderful show!”
Orchard Elementary
Orchard Elementary
“This was an amazing experience for our kids—our students with disabilities felt especially important and proud of themselves throughout the program.”
Makefield Elementary
Makefield Elementary
“Wow!! David’s performance was amazing. The whole school was buzzing all day about the show. Teachers, Parents, students and district administration were equally impressed. He dreamed of being a hero when he was young, today he definitely proved himself as one to our children. Thank you for providing an amazing opportunity for our school.”
South Valley Elementary
South Valley Elementary
“David Harrell exceeded all of our expectations! The school principal and teachers raved about his presentation. David was engaging and entertaining, and delivered a powerful message to the students about acceptance of oneself and others. I have already recommended David's program to another school in my district.”
Memorial Elementary
Memorial Elementary
“The teachers and kids LOVED David. His stories were engaging, inspiring, and entertaining, and teachers have told me, one week later, David's visit has been sparking some great classroom conversations.”