ORDINARY DAYS to benefit Autism Theatre Initiative at Laurie Beechman Next Month

Ordinary Days, a musical by Adam Gwon, will be performed for 2 nights only to benefit Theatre Development Fund's Autism Theatre Initiative (ATI) at the Laurie Beechman Theatre on Tuesday April 14th & Monday April 20th at 9:30pm.

Ordinary Days tells the story of four New Yorkers whose lives intersect in their search for happiness, success, and love. The cast includes Stacie Bono (Avenue Q) as Claire, Scott Guthrie (Fascinatin' Rhythm, Florida Rep) as Jason, Eric Shorey (Chitty Chitty Bang Bang National Tour) as Warren, and Natalie Neckyfarow as Deb. Direction by John Michael Diresta (The Drunken City, Steppenwolf Garage). Music Direction by Chris Rayis (Far from Heaven).

"Living in a city that seems to grow louder and faster every day, I find Ordinary Days a compelling story in that it gets us to slow down and really appreciate the beauty of the small and simple things in our lives. I'm excited to revisit this play about connection and truth that is more relevant today than ever," said Director John Michael Diresta.

The Autism Theatre Initiative was created by Theatre Development Fund (TDF) in 2011 to make theatre accessible to children and adults with autism and their families. Each show is performed in a friendly, supportive environment. Slight adjustments to the production are made, including the reduction of any jarring sounds or strobe lighting. Plus, in the theatre lobby there are quiet areas and activity areas staffed with autism specialists for those who need to leave their seats during the performance. With the success of the program, ATI has consulted with theatre companies and performing arts organizations worldwide to help them present their own autism-friendly performances.

"It's wonderful to complete our fourth season of sold-out autism-friendly shows," said TDF's Director of Accessibility Programs, Lisa Carling. "Our most recent performance of Aladdin sold out in record time, highlighting the need these families have to attend live theatre in a safe and supportive environment."

"Theatre has the ability to connect with people in a way that transcends our ordinary lives and creates (new) possibilities. Ordinary Days holds up a mirror to how we interact with the world and helps us recognize how important it is to connect with one another. In that way, this musical is the perfect vehicle to raise money for the Autism Theatre Initiative," said Actor/Producer Natalie Neckyfarow. "Live theatre offers yet another way to reach children and adults on the autism spectrum, and I am passionate about helping create more opportunities for this special population to take advantage of these life changing experiences."

The Laurie Beechman Theatre is located at 407 W. 42nd Street, NYC. Tickets are $25 + $20 food/drink minimum and are now available for purchase at www.ordinarydaysforati.com.