Encounter Tennessee Williams’ The Glass Menagerie through the prism of autism as interpreted by Theatre on the Spectrum. Although the term “autism” was not yet created when Williams wrote this biographical memory play about his sister Rose, his descriptions of the character of Laura, place her “on the spectrum. She is painfully shy to the point of inability to function in the work place; she obsessively collects and arranges her glass menagerie; and when highly anxious, self-regulates by cranking up her father’s old Victrola.
In the play, the father is absent, having walked out on the family long ago. Amanda Wingfield, Laura’s mother wants to find a future for her daughter. After Laura fails to complete high school and drops out of business college, Amanda’s last hope for her daughter is finding her a husband. Laura’s brother Tom, feels trapped in his warehouse job, as he is the only family member providing a paycheck to cover expenses.
Original “surround” scenes and experiences will provide audiences with a greater understanding of the challenges facing people on the autism spectrum and their families. After the performances, audience talk-backs will encourage audiences to reflect on their own experiences and share current challenges and resources for families living with autism.
This production opens at The Center for Applied Drama & Autism’s new studios at 333 S. Main Street, in the basement of the Evans building. Call 330–595-4565 to make a reservation. Seating is limited so please reserve your seat. Admission is free — however donations will be gladly accepted.
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