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, April 14th & 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).

"I have loved this musical since I first encountered it. It is beautifully crafted, incredibly optimistic, and speaks to the tremendous impact we can have on others through personal connection and also, perhaps more poignantly through unexpected connections with people we don't even know," said Neckyfarow. "Performances like ATI offers bring families affected by autism together. Therefore I felt this was the perfect choice for a theatre event to raise money for ATI."

In the 2014-2015 season, autism-friendly performances were offered through the Autism Theatre Initiative for The Lion King, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the NIght-Time, Matilda The Musical and Aladdin. "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. We were also able to delve into the world of non-musical theatre this year with The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, which is very exciting. We continue to strive to serve all members of the autism community with our autism-friendly performances. "

Performers from these shows spoke about the impact of these autism-friendly performances:

"When I got to the theatre I knew all the info I was given by our Stage management and the folks in charge but once I got out on that stage it was a whole different ball game. I had never felt an audience react to everything. I mean everything. It was glorious. They were in it the whole show. Then to meet the kids after the show, they were so sweet & so appreciative. I will never forget that experience and hope to do more." - James Monroe Iglehart, Genie, Aladdin

"Performing for kids and parents that rarely ever get to see a Broadway show as a family was amazing, yes, it was a very different audience, but I have never felt so grateful to be on stage and perform for THEM!" - Christopher Sieber, Agatha Trunchbull, Matilda The Musical

"I will never forget the feeling I got from the performance. We kept hearing about what an unforgettable experience this was going to be for the audience, I had no idea that it was going to be unforgettable for us. As an actor there is nothing more fulfilling. It gave me such a sense of awareness. I was touched by their response and so grateful that I had the experience to perform for a congregation of people with autism and their unique perspective." - Courtney Reed, Jasmine, Aladdin

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

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