First Stage Children's Theater continues to prove its commitment that theater is for everyone by announcing a new program designed for children with autism.
The organization began special programs a number of years ago for little kids. The professional plays are staged for very young children – shorter duration, sitting on parents' laps and in an informal setting.
Now First Stage is going to do First Step plays, "Five Little Monkeys" and "Mole Hill Stories," for children with autism. The performances will have a limited number of attendees, be quieter and offer a host of family resources to make the experience a fruitful and stress-free occasion.
"We're delighted that children with autism and their families can enjoy these interactive performances," said Jennifer Adams, program director for Next Steps.
Performance dates are Sunday, Nov. 11 at 4 p.m. for "Five Little Monkeys" and Sunday, Jan. 19 at 4 p.m. for "Mole Hill Stories."
Performances take place at the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center, 325 W. Walnut St. For resource materials including a Performance Social Story and pre-performance visits to the space, contact Jennifer Adams at nextsteps@firststage.org or (414) 267-2975.
Tickets are $10 per person and are available exclusively through the First Stage box office at (414) 267-2961. In addition, First Stage announced that Next Steps classes, designed for students with autism, will resume for Spring Break Theater Academy, April 1-5, 2013, from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center, 325 W. Walnut St.
Classes are open to students in grades 6-12.
With a history in Milwaukee stretching back decades, Dave tries to bring a unique perspective to his writing, whether it's sports, politics, theater or any other issue.
He's seen Milwaukee grow, suffer pangs of growth, strive for success and has been involved in many efforts to both shape and re-shape the city. He's a happy man, now that he's quit playing golf, and enjoys music, his children and grandchildren and the myriad of sports in this state. He loves great food and hates bullies and people who think they are smarter than everyone else.
This whole Internet thing continues to baffle him, but he's willing to play the game as long as OnMilwaukee.com keeps lending him a helping hand. He is constantly amazed that just a few dedicated people can provide so much news and information to a hungry public.
Despite some opinions to the contrary, Dave likes most stuff. But he is a skeptic who constantly wonders about the world around him. So many questions, so few answers.
