ICISD Autism Team poses with some of the cast of "Seussical" after the show!

Ionia County families with children with Autism Spectrum Disorders got to enjoy a very special evening together which was made possible by a partnership between Ionia County Intermediate School District’s Autism Team and Ionia Community Theatre. The two organizations partnered together to offer a special dress rehearsal performance of “Seussical the Musical” at Watt Auditorium in Ionia. This is a play based on the works of Dr. Seuss which weaves together his most famous tales and characters in unexpected ways and incorporates elements of at least 15 of his books.

"General" Brayden Adams with the "Cat in the Hat"	Alexis Whittington with the Birds of "Seussical"	Rachael and Amanda Lemmeyer get to chat with the "Cat in the Hat"

The ICISD Autism Team educated the cast of “Seussical” on autism awareness and provided all of the supports needed for the families to enjoy the show together. These included booklets called social stories that each student received at school. When they arrived the students were given a set of request cards to assist them during the musical. There was a classroom equipped with balls, mats, and other sensory gear. The ASD staff assisted children who needed a break during the show.

Families said this was the best event ever!! They enjoyed being with other families that had children with ASD in a social situation because they didn’t have to worry about the behaviors. The kids loved the musical and LOVED getting their pictures taken with the cast!

The ASD staff felt the cast of “Seussical” was outstanding after the show for spending so much time getting photographed with the children with ASD!

A great BIG THANK YOU goes out to the cast and crew of “Seussical!”