Florida Rep raises awareness for autism with documentary screening

Florida Repertory Theatre announces a special screening of the HBO documentary "Autism: The Musical" on April 27, in conjunction with its 12-week course for children on the Autism Spectrum. The screening, held during Autism Awareness Month, is being held to raise awareness and funding for the Rep's new programming for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders.

These disorders, with no identified cause, affect one in 150 children in the United States. Researchers believe it likely that both genetics and environment play a role. Several genes, brain irregularities and hormonal imbalances have been identified in those diagnosed with ASDs. Though the disorders are common, treatment and therapy are hard to find, and in most cases prohibitively expensive.

Florida Rep's course for children on the Autism Spectrum, Acting Up, was designed to give a group of young people the unique experience to express themselves and to grow individually and with others.

"We wanted to give these young people a place to laugh, interact and grow outside of their therapy and schooling," said Florida Rep's education director and Acting Up instructor, Rachael Endrizzi. "Theater reminds us it's OK sometimes to be different and silly. There are no grades in this classroom. Growth is measured individually, and small triumphs are cause for big celebration."

The Acting Up course was inspired by the HBO documentary "Autism: The Musical" which tells the story of a group of families whose kids -- all diagnosed with forms of autism -- create and perform a piece of musical theater.

Donna Roberts, a parent

who saw a need for a

program like this in her community, approached Florida Rep. Together with FGCU's occupational therapy department and KidsSpirit Therapy, the Rep's education department, led by Associate Director Rachel Burttram, spearheaded this unique course. Acting Up uses art therapy and applied theater technique as a means to promote teamwork and partner work, which aids in social interaction and improvisation. The class boosts abstract thinking skills and both verbal and nonverbal communication.

On Monday, April 27, Florida Rep will host a screening of HBO's "Autism: The Musical" at 7 p.m.

The screening will be held at the historic Arcade Theatre in the Fort Myers River District. There is no cost for admission, but donations are accepted. All proceeds will benefit Florida Rep's programming for children on the Autism Spectrum. Tickets are available online at www.floridarep.org, or through the Florida Rep box office at 332-4488.