Event: Chris Burke

Date:   May 2, 2005

Inspiring actor, Chris Burke, to appear in West Michigan

Chris Burke, the actor with Down syndrome who portrayed Corky Thatcher on the hit ABC-TV show “Life Goes On”, will be appear in several performances throughout West Michigan during the first week of May.  Burke, and Joe and John DeMasi offer an inspiring, uplifting and entertaining musical performance that emphasizes love and inclusion for all people.

In addition to his role on “Life Goes On”, which earned him a Golden Globe nomination, Burke also played Taylor, an angel of faith, on CBS’ “Touched by an Angel”.  He starred in a television movie called “The Boy Nobody Wanted,” appeared in the mini-series “Heaven and Hell”, and has had guest roles on “The Commish,” “The Promised Land,” “The Division,” and “ER.”  His appearance in the public eye has provided encouragement to thousands of individuals with special needs and their families.

Chris was born with Down syndrome in 1965, at a time when doctors suggested institutionalization. However, his parents refused to take that route and instead treated him the same as his siblings, enabling Burke to reach his full potential.

Burke met professional musicians Joe and John DeMasi while attending summer camp in New York. The DeMasis were music counselors and developed a friendship with Burke that has lasted for 25 years. In 1993 they recorded and released their first album “Lollipops and Love Songs,” a sing-a-long album for children.  The trio has recorded four albums and now performs in concerts across the country. They have also appeared on numerous national and local television shows.

The Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan (along with it's corporate sponsors) have arranged for Burke and Joe and John DeMasi to make several appearances in the area in an effort to raise public awareness about Down syndrome, as well as to provide inspiration to children with Down syndrome and their families. 

• The trio will appear at several schools throughout the week of May 2, 2005. Click here for Chris's school schedule.

• They will entertain members and guests of the Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan’s 20^th Anniversary Celebration at 7:00pm Friday, May 6 at the Forest Hills Fine Arts Center.  This is a free concert open to the public.  Click here for map to the Fine Arts Center.

• They will appear as special guests at the 2^nd annual Winners Cup 2005 Gala Benefit on Saturday, May 7 at Kent Country Club. The Winners Cup is a fundraising event for the Down Syndrome Achievement Fund, the endowment fund of the Down Syndrome Association of West Michigan.

We had a great week with Chris, Joe and John in town.  They entertained over 5,000 kids and young adults spreading their message of acceptance and believing in yourself. 

Click here for pictures.

Many thanks to our SPONSORS:

      Scarlett Machinery, Inc.