Uncommon Sense

Opening Night: November 2, 2017
Closing: November 26, 2017
Theater: The Sheen Center

The Sheen Center is proud to present the New York premiere of Tectonic Theater Project’s production of Uncommon Sense, a new play about autism heralded as “funny, tragic, important, and gorgeous.”* Written by Anushka Paris-Carter and Andy Paris and directed by Andy Paris under the artistic direction of Tectonic’s founder, Moisés Kaufman. Uncommon Sense runs for five weeks only from October 25 to November 26. From the creators of The Laramie Project, Gross Indecency, and 33 Variations, Uncommon Sense is a new play about living life on the autism spectrum. Meet Moose, Dan, Jess, and Lali, four people on the spectrum, and discover the remarkable ways they and their families conquer challenges through humor, determination and love. Inspired by interviews with real people, this multimedia play reveals our universal challenges with “difference,” our desire to connect, and the lengths we will go for the people we love. This production embraces all audiences, from those finally seeing their experiences reflected on the stage, to those peering into the autism world for the very first time. The shows November 11 at 2:00 pm and November 19 at 3:00 pm will be Relaxed Performances, intended to attract and accommodate individuals who may not be able to comply with traditional theater etiquette. At these performances, all noises, movements and behaviors are welcomed and supported. Additionally, there will be slight modifications to technical elements, such as light and sound, to make the performance more comfortable for individuals with sensory sensitivities. Uncommon Sense will be presented in an inclusive, judgment-free environment. In addition to offering scheduled Relaxed Performances, Tectonic and The Sheen Center welcome audience members of all abilities to all performances. At no point will anyone be shushed or asked to leave due to noises, movements or behaviors related to a cognitive or developmental disability. There will be talkbacks after the Saturday matinee performances on November 4, 11, 18 and 25.  See here for more information. A special panel discussion after the November 5 performance entitled Autism and Faith: Animating Hope. November 16 will be an ASL Interpreted Performance. For more information, please visit www.handson.org Autistic License: The Art of Pure Vision art exhibition will run in the Gallery at the Sheen Center during the run of the show