Autism Takes Center STAGE in a Way You Never Expected
A Deep Dive into the Power of Theater and the Autistic Experience
In episode 116 of the Water Prairie Chronicles, Tonya sat down with Matteo Esposito, a talented autistic playwright, to discuss his journey, his work, and the power of theater to promote understanding and empathy.
“We have so much to offer. And I think we’re assets instead of liabilities,” shares Matteo. His words resonate deeply, reflecting the experiences of many autistic individuals who often feel misunderstood and undervalued.
Matteo’s personal journey with autism has profoundly shaped his writing. His play, “Sorting It Out,” is a powerful testament to the transformative nature of art. By sharing his own story, Matteo opens a dialogue about the challenges and triumphs of living with autism.
“It’s sad that these kids, or these people with special needs, these special needs disability people, these folks, whether it’s from Canada, America, wherever, get mistreated every day, misunderstood every day,” Matteo laments. This sentiment highlights the urgent need for greater understanding and acceptance of autistic individuals.
Through his work, Matteo advocates for greater inclusion and representation of autistic artists in the theater world. He believes that theater can be a powerful tool for social change, challenging stereotypes and promoting empathy.
“Why do we need a better play about how to treat people in society when we should know how to treat people in society?” Matteo asks. This question challenges us to reflect on our own biases and prejudices.
As Matteo shares his experiences, he emphasizes the importance of listening to autistic voices and believing in their potential. “Listen to your kids. Listen to people that and believe in the people that believe in you,” he urges.
By sharing his story, Matteo inspires us to challenge the status quo and work towards a more inclusive and compassionate society. His words remind us that everyone has something valuable to contribute, regardless of their abilities or differences.
Matteo’s journey is a testament to the power of human connection and the importance of empathy. His work challenges societal norms and opens up new possibilities for autistic artists. By sharing his story, Matteo is not only inspiring others but also changing the world, one play at a time.
Listen to the full interview here:
