Father injured in robbery attempt to perform with son at ReelAbilities Houston Film and Arts Festival 2024

HOUSTON – The ReelAbilities Houston Film & Arts Festival started on February 2 this year. But if you think you missed the festival that shines the spotlight on individuals with disabilities sharing their artistic talents with the world, you have not.

ReelAbilities Houston is a month-long festival that promotes inclusivity and awareness and provides an outlet to showcase creative freedom through film, music, and art.

“Networking is really nice with other musicians with disabilities and musicians without... At the moment when we’re playing, I don’t think any of us feel any difference at all,” said Eman Gilligan, one of the ReelMusicians performing at the ReelMusic event on February 22.

Gilligan is a singer-songwriter who plays throughout Houston with his family band, The Sundogs. He was shot in a robbery attempt nearly ten years ago, leaving him with a spinal cord injury. Through the music therapy department at TIRR Memorial Hermann’s music therapy department, Gilligan discovered ReelMusic. Since 2018, he has performed on the ReelMusic stage. He’s back on the stage playing music with his son Arthur.

Find out more about the father-son performing duo and their original song ‘Still Running’ in the video player above.

For event information and the complete list of activities, click here.


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Petite powerhouse with a love for TV, especially sci-fi and drama. Proud aunt to two nieces and one nephew. Favorite quote: “Not all those who wander are lost.” Embracing life’s adventures, one episode at a time.

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