Autism: The Musical (HBO)

About Autism: The Musical (HBO)

'Autism: The Musical' is an inspiring documentary on HBO, directed by Tricia Regan. Released in 2008, it follows the tireless efforts of Elaine Hall, an acting coach and mother of a child with autism who formed “The Miracle Project,” a theater program tailored to children with autism. This fascinating chronicle illuminates both the struggles and triumphs of affected individuals and their families, offering a unique window into a life marked by Autism.

Making / Production

The documentary was in production for over two years, with HBO and Bunim-Murray Productions working closely with Elaine Hall to capture the process and progress of children as they prepared to stage a full musical production. The detailed perspective highlights the abilities of each child, thus reframing how Autism is understood.

Actors

• Elaine Hall: Hall is the passionate 'Miracle Project' director, and a mother to a son with autism. Her dedication, resilience and patience paint a vivid image of the strength of a parent whose child is living with autism.
• The Children: Each of the five children featured in the program have their own unique story but share the common struggles, joys and triumphs of life with autism.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• This documentary was originally conceived as a six-part series, but was ultimately condensed into a feature-length documentary.
• The Miracle Project, featured heavily in the film, is a real-life program that continues to serve children today.

Awards

'Autism: The Musical' won the Emmy for Outstanding Nonfiction Special in 2008. It was also honored at various film festivals like Newport Beach Film Festival and Sedona International Film Festival.

Quotes

• "The miracle is where ordinary becomes extraordinary."
  - Elaine Hall
• "If we could see the world through their eyes, we would see it's us that are disabled."
  - Parent of a child in the program

Music, Soundtrack

• 'Share the Voice' by Jack Kapanka - This song encapsulates the spirit of the documentary, and its uplifting and empowering message.
• Other music themes are improvisational, echoing the personality and character of each child actor, captured during the creative process while filming and merged into a beautiful soundtrack.