This production touches on so many of the challenges faced by all those who love someone with autism. From first getting the diagnosis, to the self doubt and blaming, to the marital strain, the view is unflinchingly real. Through the poignant songs, the stories of the families, including the siblings, are told without judgment. Seemingly small moments for the rest of the world, the utterance of a single word, the ability to accept a loving touch, the acquisition of the most basic of skills, all take on a special joy that only those who know autism can grasp. Through all the tribulations, the fears, the anger, somehow hope shines through.
Autism Rock Opera Returns to a Stage Near You!
Four years ago, the POAC board of directors decided to commission a play about the trials and joys of raising a child with autism. Several of the members talked to a young writer/director named Steve Allen. The parents told their stories to Steve over coffee in the diner, during visits to their homes, and during many phone calls. What resulted was an emotional journey through the lives of three separate families and their daily struggle raising and communicating with their autistic children. Last month POAC contacted Steve Allen and he agreed to direct the play again, with some changes and updates.
Tickets are $15.00 and are being offered at a discounted rate of $12.50 for POAC members. Dates and locations are as follows:
Veterans Memorial Middle School, 105 Hendrickson Avenue, Brick, NJ 08724
Friday,February 29th at 7:30 pm
Saturday, March 1st at 7:30 pm
Encore Performance Saturday, March 8th at 7:30 pm
Veterans Memorial Middle School, 105 Hendrickson Avenue, Brick, NJ 08724
School #3, Clifton, NJ
365 Washington Ave. Clifton, NJ 07011
Sunday ,March 9th at 3:00 pm
Robert Van Fossan Theatre at Bloomfield University
Saturday, March 22nd at 7:30 pm
Tickets for this performance are $20 non members $15 POAC members
Woodbridge High School, Woodbridge, NJ
Saturday, March 29th at 2:00pm
Churchill Jr. High School, East Brunswick, NJ
Sunday, March 30th at 3:00 pm
Two River Theater, Red Bank, NJ
Saturday, April 19th at 7:30 pm Please note that tickets for this performance are $20 and can only be purchased through their box office at 732-345-1400.