OCASG and Chance Theater to Offer Spectrum Speak Up Theater Program

Chance Theater and OCASG Announce Spectrum Speak Up Theater Program for Teens with ASD

The Orange County Asperger’s Support Group (OCASG) and Chance Theater are announcing that they will be once again host Spectrum ‘Speak Up’. This five-week theater program is specifically designed for teens that have been diagnosed with high functioning Autism, Asperger’s, or PDD-NOS.

Registration is open now.

An informational meeting will be held on Monday, May 15, 7:00 PM.

The program will run from June 12 through July 21, with performances July 22 and July 23.

Click Here for more information.

Spectrum Speak Up –  Changing Teen Lives

Last Summer  the Chance Theater adapted their successful ‘Speak Up’ program for teens with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).  According to one parent, “This program has been so amazing for our daughter.  She has been communicating more and just seems happier to find other teens like herself.  Sometimes in her mainstream classes she feels ‘weird’, but in your program she feels accepted.”

The program uses story circles, improv games, and writing exercises to enable students to learn the fundamentals of storytelling, while having fun and finding their voice. Over five weeks, students work collaboratively with their peers to write, design, and perform a new play that highlights special moments in their lives.

“We at OCASG are thrilled that we can offer Spectrum Speak Up again this summer,” said Judi Uttal, president of OCASG. “Teens diagnosed with ASD struggle with bullying and establishing their identity especially during their high school years. Last year’s program, was life-changing for the ten teens who had fun, made friends, and developed a passion for theater. According to the teens and their parents, these individuals gained self-confidence, enhanced their communication skills, and developed a greater sense of belonging.”

“We believe that theater can change lives,” said Founding Artist Casey Long. “We are grateful to OCASG for the opportunity to expand our ‘Speak Up’ program to an overlooked segment of our community, and aid in developing the skill of self-expression for students on the Autism spectrum. We have seen again and again with teenagers and veterans the personal impact that is possible when you give someone a voice and a stage to speak up about their experiences. Theater is a powerful tool in realizing the potential of living a more fully rounded life by developing skills in problem solving, critical and creative thinking, and dealing with ambiguity and complexity. We can’t wait to get started and see what they have to say.”

Register to Participate:

• To Attend the Informational Meeting on Monday, May 15 at 7 PM: RSVP Now
• To Enroll in the Spectrum Speak Up Program: Register Here

About Chance Theater

Proud to be one of the leading ensemble-driven theatre companies in Southern California, CHANCE THEATER has received the National Theatre Company grant from American Theatre Wing for “nurturing a community of artists in ways that strengthen and demonstrate the quality, diversity, and dynamism of American theatre.” The Chance has won six Ovation Awards, including two for Best Production of a Musical – Intimate Theater for its West Coast premiere of Triassic Parq – The Musical and Southern California premiere of Jerry Springer – The Opera, as well as four LADCC Awards, including the Polly Warfield Award for Outstanding Season. The Anaheim City Council named Chance Theater “the Official Resident Theater Company of Anaheim” in 2014, and Arts Orange County has twice named the Chance as “Outstanding Arts Organization.” Known for using bold and personal storytelling to promote dialogue and connection within the Southern California theatrical landscape, the Chance is committed to contributing to a more compassionate, connected and creative community. As a constituent member of Theatre Communications Group, Orange County Theatre Guild, and LA Stage Alliance, Chance Theater continues to bring national attention to the Southern California and Orange County theater scenes.  Visit Chance Theater online at https://www.chancetheater.com