PUMPKIN SOUP: A PLAY ABOUT AUTISM AND A FAMILY to Open 8/22 at The Full Cup

"Pumpkin Soup: A Play About Autism and a Family" sets to open this Thursday night at The Full Cup on Van Duzer Street in Staten Island.

A young couple hosting Thanksgiving in their new home faces the reoccurring issues of how to care for their Autistic nephew.

Holly Acerra Pepe, the plays backbone and writer, loosely based it off of some of her own life experiences with her son, Christopher Delgado. Chris, who plays Peter in the show, also helped write segments, and came up with ideas for sound and staging.

The cast also includes Brian Haley, Elizabeth Wallace Yeserski, Steven Pepe, Alex Acerra, John Disalvo, Suzanne Castellano Serpico, and Megan Merrick. All who share a mutual connection and love for the subject at hand.

It seems to be what makes this show exceptionally special. That a group of individuals who feel so strongly about "Awareness is the Answer to Intolerance" can donate their time, and love, to create this piece of art that raises money for such an important cause. Given the recent news coverage of the anonymous hate letter delivered to an Ontario family, the play is opening at a very fitting time.

The ignorance towards Autism and other development disabilities in today's society is prevalent and deserves to be addressed. The play questions the way we treat others, and the importance of patience. This show is one that actress, Megan Merrick, said she just had to be a part of. "Growing up with a sibling with Down Syndrome taught me the virtue of patience at a very young age. It's all about being open minded and showing empathy towards everyone."

Seating is limited and can be reserved by emailing pumpkinsouptheplay@gmail.com your name and the number of seats you wish to reserve. Tickets are $10.00 each, cash only, collected at the door. The show starts at 8:00PM.

There will be a 50/50 raffle, and Pumpkin flavored goodies to be had. Autism Speaks plans to be in attendance and fifty percent of ticket proceeds will go towards the charity.

For more information, visit the Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/events/239545619519041/ or go to: http://www.autismspeaks.org/events/pumpkin-soup-play-about-autism-and-family.

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