Carlsbad, CA—New Village Arts will present a performance of “Stellaluna” performed by youth and young adults with neurodiversity.
The play is based on the beloved children’s book, “Stellaluna” written by Carlsbad resident Janell Cannon, adapted by Aleta Barthell, and directed by Samantha Ginn.
Nearly escaping an attack from an owl, young Stellaluna must find their way in a world where they often feel upside down. The production has been created by a neurodiverse cast and crew, with dance and accompanying music performed by a live harpist.
“Our real goal with this program is to put on a good show,” Aleta Barthell said. “The performers do an amazing job and the play is interesting, magical, and beautiful. The individual performers’ challenges become invisible, and everyone just enjoys a wonderful night in the theatre.”
Performances are August 19 to 22 at the Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch, where New Village Arts is in residence for the 2021 season. Tickets are $10 for general admission and $5 for students.
“Stellaluna” is produced as part of the theater’s Inclusive Education Programming, which creates an inclusive arts experience for all members of the community.
“We welcome all to our village and strive to develop programming that will ensure everyone has access to quality arts education and entertainment,” Kristianne Kurner, Executive Artistic Director of New Village Arts said.
New Village Arts have partnered with Kids Act to develop fully staged productions for teenagers and young adults with neurodiversity, and their neurotypical peers. Working with top-quality arts educators and designers, students rehearse and develop fully realized productions. Past performances have included adaptations of “The Little Prince,” “The Great Smelly Slobbery Small-Tooth Dog,” and an original production entitled “Secret Superheroes.” Members of the cast and company for “Stellaluna” range in age from 13 to mid-to-late 20s. In addition to students on the autism spectrum, some have Down syndrome.
“Stellaluna” is sponsored by a Comcast/NBC7/Telemundo Project Innovation Grant, The Foundation for Developmental Disabilities, The Nordson Corporation Foundation, and The Qualcomm Foundation, with additional support from The Flower Fields and The Home Depot.
