Autism: The Musical

Yep, that's the title. Might not sound too appealing, but I have a new-found respect for the folks who make HBO documentaries. Somehow, they managed to squeeze most of the archetypal challenges and feelings parents of children with autism have into a couple of hours.

Of these, "What will my child do when I'm gone?" is perhaps the most poignant . "Will anyone ever care about him/her?" is a close second... followed by "Does he/she have a chance at a 'normal" life? A 'happy' life? A 'productive' life?"

These ponderous questions play out against the backdrop of "The Miracle Project", where a very ambitious gal attempts to create a musical written and performed by kids with autism. I liken the difficulty of this task to performing the works of Shakespeare using only stray cats from the neighborhood. And, indeed, there are many trials, meltdowns, fits, confrontations, and an occasional drop of the "f-bomb". New friends are found and old companions lost in the course of events.

For those familiar with these emotions, it will evoke tears, squirming in your seat, belly laughs, and (at least in our screening) the occasional vocal outburst. I'm fairly certain that even for the uninitiated, it would be both educational and entertaining, and probably a lot less painful.

It turns out that one of the things our family discovered was taken to the next level in this film. There is an undeniable link between actors and autism. Actors are unafraid to play out the most outrageous behavior for our entertainment or enlightenment.

All the world's indeed a stage
And we are merely players
Performers and portrayers
Each another's audience
Outside the gilded cage

Let's be an appreciative audience.