Stratford Library
Sunday, April 10th at 2 p.m.
Lovell Room
The Stratford Library will present “An Afternoon of Short Original Plays in Recognition of Autism Awareness Month” on Sunday, April 10th at 2 p.m. in the Lovell Room at the Stratford Library, 2203 Main Street. The staged readings of seven short plays offer works that shine the spotlight on adults and children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
The program features original short plays and monologues by two Stratford playwrights: “Helicopter Mom,” “Holy Moly Rat’s Tails,” and “The Human Sandwich,” all by Beatriz Allen, and “Perfect,” “It Doesn’t Count” and “Someone at the Bench,” all by Mark Lambeck. It also includes “Don’t Let Go” by Nancy A. Herman of Milford. Through the eyes of the individual affected by autism or family members of those with the condition, the plays and monologues examine some of the struggles facing those touched by the disorder.
Directors for the festival are: Beatriz Allen and Tom Rushen, both of Stratford, Nancy A. Herman of Milford and Rachel H. Babcock of Branford. It also features choreography by Megan Bonneau McCool of Stratford. Actors are: Caroline Blake, Jennifer Ju and Richard Warren, all of Milford; Julia Allen of Stratford; Rachel H. Babcock of Branford; Bryn Berg of Westbrook; Kate Buffone of Avon; Betzabeth Castro of Bridgeport; Nick Kaye of Bethel; Fredda Takacs of Trumbull and Thomas Takacs of Fairfield.
Autism or ASD refers to a range of developmental conditions characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication. According to the Centers for Disease Control, autism affects an estimated 1 in 44 children in the US. Autism Awareness Month emphasizes the need for public awareness to promote acceptance, recognize the differences and become inclusive towards individuals with autism. In 2021, the Autism Society of America announced a shift in terminology from Autism Awareness Month to Autism Acceptance Month.
The show is free and open to the public. While reservations are not required, space is limited. Wearing masks is optional. Doors open at 1:30 p.m.
