Autism: The Musical-A Magical Glimpse into our World

Autism has introduced me to a life of pleasure, anger, spirituality and madness. But at the end of the day, Autism is all about beauty, grace and our children’s triumphs. My son’s differences have brought me great joy; his fortitude has touched my heart. I have watched helplessly as he struggled with his voice and I have felt him crawl quietly into my bed, envelope me and gently coo in my ear.

My son, Chris was never lacking, in fact he was never disabled. I was. I had to discover how to embrace his strength and skills. I began to celebrate his beauty and savor his triumphs. I became Chris and discovered varied ways to learn, to educate and to cope with the world.

I rejoice when one of our own is cured but just as ecstatic when a child on the spectrum spits out his first words or overcomes his social ineptness. Explore your children’s struggles, and praise their simple successes.

Last week I watched my boy take notes in class and download the information onto his computer. I have also endured horrific behavioral outbursts, suffered from depression and held onto my son as he writhed in deep intestinal pain. Our families are forced to journey down a road of terrifying unpredictability. We are also privy to fleeting glimpses of purity and moments of unconditional love. Autism: The Musical allows the audience to view our world and to celebrate our children.

I met Elaine Hall at a conference in Cleveland. I was immediately fascinated by her boundless energy and extraordinary resolve. She is the consummate advocate but still innocent enough to marvel at the growth of her students. Ms. Hall created the Miracle Project, a theater program for youngsters with developmental disabilities. It is a loving project, devoid of pretense. Autism: The Musical traces the lives of five children with Autism as they prepare and rehearse for a theatrical performance. It is directed by Trish Reagan who makes the individuals on the spectrum the primary subject, not the disorder. She concentrates on the children’s strengths and social evolution. Why not bring this attitude to your IEP? Why not bring it to your children’s lives?

You not only experience the struggles of the cast but the angst of their families as well. The audience becomes part of the Autism community. The intelligence of these children shines through and wins our hearts. Their struggle with social skills, sensory issues and fears allows us to share their humanity.

The film introduces us to five children on the spectrum, Wyatt who reflects on bullies, Adam, a brilliant cellist, Henry who perseverates on dinosaurs, Lexi, the incarnation of Joni Mitchell and Neal, Elaine’s son. The project reveals the many faces of Autism. Echolalia, savant like qualities, social difficulties and inappropriate behaviors are all portrayed. But this is not a cheap, theatrical production that exploits Autism. This video diary is about growth and the human spirit. It is about truth. When Neal pushes his friend to the ground for no apparent reason, I am reminded of my own son who will rejoice one moment and bite viciously the next. The film is raw and revealing.

I fall asleep briefly and open my eyes to Chris bouncing to the music of Match Box Twenty. He has typed their song title, “If You’re Gone” as a request on You Tube. He is singing along, lost in the rhythm. My boy propels himself high into the air and then settles into a little side step that my fiancée, Kate has taught him. Chris is smiling, arms outstretched, dancing to the music. It is a magical moment; Chris is just a teenager, rocking out. I am mesmerized.

I urge you to experience Autism: The Musical. But then again, you really don’t need to. Open your eyes. Share your children’s joy. The music is all around you