VSA arts of New Mexico Programs and Services
1999-2000

Playwright Discovery Program

On October 18th, 1999 VSA arts (formerly Very Special Arts) honored two emerging playwrights at The John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts in Washington, DC. The two playwrights were chosen from entries gathered from across the United States and were awarded national honors of artistic excellence. They presented their award-winning plays that creatively depict human perspectives on living with a disability.

A resident of New Mexico's Land of Enchantment, Danielle Mullen received the 1999 Playwright Discovery Award in Category I for playwrights age 21 and under.

The performance of "Under Achievement" by Danielle Mullen tells the story of Roscoe, a high school freshman struggling with dyslexia. Frustrated by his learning disability, Roscoe soon gains confidence from older students who help him cope with his dyslexia.