Putting young people with Autism & related exceptionalities in the center of New Orleans’ parade culture.
Young people with Autism march in the Krewe of Chewbacchus Mardi Gras parade as the STOMP Troopers
Look back on 5 years of crazy creativity with the only parade sub-krewe for neurodivergent young people! Visit our photo gallery to see the Troopers performing, parading, and partying.
Music, art, and socialization in parade prep workshops
Preparation is the key to our success on parade night. The STOMP Troopers spend weekly sessions connecting, crafting, and rehearsing for their big night. Sessions are facilitated by professional jazz musicians and artists, an art therapist, occupational therapist, and music therapist, as well as university student volunteers.
Awesome instruments and cool tools
The STOMP Troopers offers teens, tweens, and young adults with exceptionalities access to VIP-level cool spaces, materials, creators, and groups. We’ve used laser cutters, 3D printers, and power tools for building instruments. We’ve performed in conjunction with Preservation Hall, Arcade Fire, Mannie Fresh, Browncoat Brass, Noisician Coalition, and 501st Legion. We’ve built artsy percussion instruments from PVC pipe, Zulu coconuts, bamboo, and even metal trash cans.
“I loved being around the crowds; they were cheering for me! I’d like to do it again because was fun. And it’s a good thing to have fun.”
— Jared Chriss, STOMP Trooper
Promoting confidence, disability pride, and community connection
From tween-hood to young-adulthood, everyone has to find their identity and place in society. Participating in the arts with peers promotes important social skills and relationships. The STOMP Troopers project goes further, giving neurodivergent youth the opportunity to develop and transmit New Orleans culture.