Lincoln Center Education has commissioned "Up And Away," an original theatrical experience designed for audiences on the autism spectrum and their families.
The new work was announced by Russell Granet, executive director of Lincoln Center Education on Thursday, December 4. “Up and Away,” was conceived and created by the Trusty Sidekick Theater Company, a group know for its family production, and the piece is inspired by Jules Verne’s “Around the World in 80 Days.”
“Up and Away” is an immersive piece for small audiences with each show being performed for an audience of eight students and their caregivers or guardians and will be an original, multi-sensory theatrical experience. Integral to these presentations will be ensuring the engagement and comfort of both the children and their caregivers. The audience will arrive at the Lincoln Center venue’s elevators for a “ride to the sky” as if they are about to set off on a hot air balloon journey to see, feel, smell, and experience the wonders of the world above the clouds. Once in the theater space, children, and adults will sit in specially designed baskets and embark on an adventure filled with puppetry, projection, and music. In addition, a quiet space will be available near the theater for any children needing a break from the action.
“Very few opportunities exist for children with autism to experience live performance specifically designed for them and their needs,” Jonathan Shmidt Chapman, the artistic director of Trusty Sidekick said in a statement. “Trusty Sidekick believes in creating theater experiences in which all kids can feel like heroes setting out on epic journeys, and we’re thrilled to craft a new production especially with young people on the autism spectrum in mind.”
The production is scheduled to open in the fall of 2015. Lincoln Center will present preview performances April 29 to May 3 at the Clark Studio Theater.
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