I try not to play favourites, but this week’s guest may be the most extraordinary human I’ve ever interviewed. Diane Dupuy is the founder of Famous PEOPLE Players, a Black Light theatre company where the performers are individuals with physical and developmental disabilities. On stage, they become invisible, allowing life-sized puppets to dance, dazzle, and delight the audience. Offstage, they find purpose, dignity, and a chance to be part of something magical.

In this profoundly moving episode, Diane shares how she turned her childhood trauma, learning challenges, and rejection by society into a purpose-driven life. Famous PEOPLE Players is her ever-burning flame of inclusion, artistry, and belief in human potential.

From being discovered by Liberace—who invited the troupe to open for him in Las Vegas—to receiving support from Paul Newman, Senator Ted Kennedy, and even a standing ovation from Phil Collins, Diane’s journey is one of sheer will and unstoppable passion. No funding? She finds a way. Border blocks? She calls the White House. Criticism? She answers with applause.

But today, this company which has changed so many lives is fighting to keep its lights on. With no government funding, they rely solely on ticket sales, donations, and sponsorships.

If this episode moves you—and it will—share it. And if you can, support the show that refuses to stop, because for Diane Dupuy and her PLAYERS, the show must go on.

And please stay to hear what Andrea Barrack, from RBC, has to say about the role that organizations can play in creating a better world.

 

Visit famouspeopleplayers.com. Help keep the curtain up.

RBC: Purpose Framework:  https://www.rbc.com/our-impact/_assets-custom/pdf/esg-report-2023-en-placemat.pdf