Mickey Rowe: Autism in Acting

-Courtesy of mickeyrowe.com

What is autism?

“Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), refers to a broad range of 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 59 children in the United States today.” autismspeaks.org

Here’s an interview by HuffPost original series on Mickey Rowe and why theatre should be more inclusive when it comes to casting https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jmj9c825Nss Why autistic actors should be cast in more roles

Advocates for people with autism often say, “If you’ve met one person with autism, you’ve met one person with autism.” Just like the general population, autistic people are individuals with different personalities, talents, and limitations. As described by the Autism Society, autism is “a complex disability; signs usually appear during early childhood and affect a person’s ability to communicate and interact with others.” It is a “spectrum” condition. People are affected in different ways and to different degrees. In an article for Playbill, Rowe says, “With autism comes a new way of thinking; a fresh eye, a fresh mind. Literally, a completely different wiring of the brain.” Mickey Rowe will be playing the part of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart in Syracuse Stage’s production of Amadeus.

Disability in Theatre and Entertainment

The first-ever national disability theatre is spreading across the country and its co-founder, actor with autism Mickey Rowe joins in on this great podcast to discuss the positive changes for theatre inclusivity. Click the link below to listen. rudermanfoundation.org