Morristown's Mayo Performing Arts Center Adding New Classes For Special Needs Children

MORRISTOWN, N.J.– Starting in January, the Mayo Performing Arts Center will add new courses for children with autism spectrum disorders and other special needs.

New to MPAC is the Miracle Project – an award-winning program that uses music, dance and theater, according to the MPAC website.

General Manager Ed Kirchdoerffer said the program addresses the core challenges of autism – communication, behavior and socialization – while providing children the tools to build communication, social skills, self-esteem through inclusive theater.

By participating, he added, they become part of a performing arts community.

“The need for this program is profound, said Elaine Hall, founder and artistic director of The Miracle Project."The rate of New Jersey children diagnosed with autism is much higher than the national average. MPAC and The Miracle Project are so aligned in the way we approach the arts that it was such a natural fit.”

According to Autism Speaks, 2.5 percent of New Jersey children are diagnosed with autism.

Two, 22-session spring semester courses will be offered.

One of the courses will be open to 10 students, ages 9-15, who require individual aides and 10 neurotypical"peer mentor" students, Kirchdoerffer said.

The other, he added, will feature 10 same-aged students who do not required aides, along with 10 neurotypical students.

The courses end with an open-class presentation, according to the GM.

To prepare for the program's launch, Hall will be giving a free, public lecture on Dec. 12 at 7 p.m.

The lecture will explain The Miracle Project's concept and how Hall plains to implement it at MPAC, according to Kirchdoerffer.

"Imparting this training to the MPAC educators will enable them to not just assist with intervention techniques, but ultimately provide the right theatrical foundation for future theater, film and television professionals in a way that encourages belonging to a theatrical community," Hall said.

Added MPAC Education Director Cathy Roy, "We're looking forward to training with Elaine Hall and becoming certified as the only Miracle Project provider in the state, where 1 in 41 children are affected by autism."

According to Kirchdoerffer, scholarships are available to students based on need.

“MPAC is committed to making the performing arts accessible to all members of our community without any barriers,” said Allison Larena, MPAC's president and chief executive officer. "The launch of The Miracle Project program at MPAC significantly enhances our offerings for children on the autism spectrum and with other disabilities through a revolutionary and specialized theater training program.”

Pictured: Elaine Hall/Image courtesy MPAC