Bedford Playhouse: Autism Awareness Week: Bedford Playhouse’s recognition of  Autism Awareness Week features a  carefully curated programming lineup of five sixty minute length virtual events aimed at inspiring the community to gain a deeper understanding of Autism and celebrate the uniqueness of every individual.

Join them for these engaging virtual programs:

Autism 101: Tues, April 13: 7pm: A presentation by Dr. Stephen Kanne from Weill-Cornell on how autism may present itself and how it is currently diagnosed and treated. Dr. Kanne is the Director of the Center for Autism and the Developing Brain at Weill Cornell Medical School.

Art & Autism: Wed, April 14: 7pm:  BPH’s panel of experts will explore the relationship between Art and Autism as we discuss alternative learning spaces, community engagement, and best practices.

Panelists: Melanie Adsit (Guggenheim), Larissa Kunynskyj (Theatre Development Fund), and Aliza Greenberg (Teaching Artist at CO/LAB)

Moderated by Dr. Michelle Gorenstein (Mt. Sinai)

Let’s Talk Mental Health: Depressions & Anxiety in the Autism Community: Thurs, April 15: 7pm: Depression and anxiety are prevalent in all communities, but for people on the Autism spectrum they can often be amplified and go untreated.  Join leading experts in the field as we discuss this very timely and important topic.

Panelists: Dr. Michelle Gorenstein (Mt. Sinai) – other panelists to be announced.

Moderated by Dr. Cassandra Rutledge Newsom (University of Birmingham)

Best Summer Ever Virtual Film: Fri, April 16: 7pm: Register to receive links to the film and Q&A.

Best Summer Ever is the first film of its kind… simply put, its stars and crew are made up of people of all abilities, and the quality of production is pure Hollywood.  Join us for the East Coast Premiere of this amazing film that will lift your spirits and warm your heart. Q&A follows the film.

Produced by Zeno Mountain Farm and premiered at the SXSW Film Festival in Austin, TX in 2020.

Panelists: Will Halby (Zeno Mountain Farm founder) – additional panelists to be announced.

Autism & Adulthood: Sat, April 17: 7pm

Register to receive links to the Q&A.

As young adults with autism approach the age of 22, how do we support their meaningful engagement in our shared communities?  Our panel looks at the many ways organizations are helping to provide the skills and resources necessary for these young adults to succeed.

Panelists: Patricia Wright (NEXT for Autism), Tibby Guzman (ARC of Westchester), Dr. Francis Tabone (Cooke School & Instutite), and Jessica Nesbihal (Cooke School & Institute)