About Autism: The Musical

Released in 2008, Autism: The Musical is a documentary feature film, which profiles the making of the original stage musical "Autism: The Musical." The film chronicles the lives of five children with autism, their parents, and the acting coach as they write and rehearse their own full-length musical, navigating through the challenges and triumphs that unveil their creative personalities. It offers viewers a humanistic perspective on the often misunderstood and stigmatized disorder.

Making / Production

The film was directed by Tricia Regan. Regan brilliantly presented an ordinary life routine of autistic children, providing viewers a platform to understand Autism. The documentary goes beyond the stereotypical notions and shows that autistic children are as talented and capable as any others.

Actors

• Elaine Hall, played herself, the acting coach, and founder of The Miracle Project. She encourages children to express themselves creatively, recognizing their unique abilities.
• Neal Katz, one of the autistic children in the film, Katz displays a notable enthusiasm for sound and music, which is thoroughly showcased in the film.
• Adam Walden, though non-verbal, communicates effectively with his cello in the film, demonstrating the power of music therapy.
• Wyatt Isaac, afflicted with high-functioning autism, Wyatt’s adoration for dinosaurs is transformed into a significant element of the stage production.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The children, as part of the complete creative process, created the stage production itself.
• The movie is not just about kids with autism; it's also about their parents and their day-to-day experiences and challenges.
• Real-life footage of the children at home and in rehearsal was used to illustrate the daily reality of living with autism.

Awards

The film bagged the 'Outstanding Nonfiction Special' at the 2008 Primetime Creative Arts Emmy Awards. It was, moreover, nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival in 2007.

Quotes

• "It's not about creating the next great star, it's about creating a space where children can star in their own lives." - Elaine Hall

Music, Soundtrack

• The film features heartfelt and at times upbeat music, written and performed by the very children involved in The Miracle Project.