Photo Flash: ORDINARY DAYS Performance Benefits Autism Theatre Initiative Tonight

The experience of live theatre has the capacity to change lives, but for children and adults on the autism spectrum, access to theatre has not always been possible.

Autism spectrum disorders often are accompanied by sensitivities to both light and sound, which make most live theatre overwhelming to this special population. That coupled with the unique behaviors exhibited by those on the autism spectrum, which may include repetitive body movement or sudden outbursts, make attending normal theatrical performances outside of the realm of possibility for most.

That is where the work of the Theatre Development Fund's Autism Theatre Initiative (ATI) comes in. This unique program, which was started in 2011 as part of the Theatre Accessibility Project (TAP), makes theatre accessible to children and adults on the autism spectrum 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.

April marks Autism Awareness Month, and Natalie Neckyfarow, an AEA/SAG-AFTRA actress whose nephew is autistic, is producing Adam Gwon's musical Ordinary Days as a benefit for the Autism Theatre Initiative. "Everyone is talking about autism awareness right now, so I feel that this is the perfect time for the theatre community to speak up about the importance of autism-friendly theatre and support the growth of the Autism Theatre Initiative," said Neckyfarow. "It is for this reason that I am producing Ordinary Days to benefit ATI, and also encouraging actors to learn about autism-friendly theatre and speak up about its value."

Ordinary Days will be performed to benefit the Autism Theatre Initiative tonight, Monday April 20th at 9:30pm at the Laurie Beechman Theatre.This musical 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 (Carnival, Musicals Tonight) 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).

Photos by Star Stuff Photography