‘The Old Homeplace’: A musical that beats the odds
March 13th, 2008
From the Washington Post:
When Meredith Bean McMath was asked to direct the Very Special Arts production of a new musical in Purcellville (Virginia), she went in with high expectations. But even with that mind-set, McMath said, she realized after the play’s debut last weekend that she had underestimated her cast.
About 35 of the 50 people in the production have a physical or mental disability. Many of the actors are dealing with autism, Down syndrome or varying degrees of developmental delay.
“What amazed me is watching them turn on a light bulb during a show, and there they are,” said McMath, who directed “The Old Homeplace: A Loudoun Valley Tale,” which continues this weekend at the new Franklin Park Performing and Visual Arts Center. “It’s the interaction they have with the audience that suddenly brings them to a new place. It’s a blast to watch.”


