On March 26, Tune To A will make its world premiere at the Expanse Festival after it was postponed in 2021 due to the pandemic. This play has been in the making since 2019.
Tune To A is a “new play for young audiences” that opens our eyes to accessibility, disability, friendship, and the power of voice. The playwrights include Carly Neis, Cynthia Jimenez-Hicks, and Cameron Kneteman. The story draws on Carly’s lived experiences growing up with cerebral palsy and her involvement in music, the theatre community, and the public school system. Her experiences are brought to life as we meet Ava (played by Carly herself), a 13-year-old with cerebral palsy who loves music. Her teacher, Mr. B, constantly dismisses her attempts to contribute to the band. Ava’s new best friend, Jordan, tries to be the best ally possible, and their friendship becomes impactful in their journey.
Join Ava as she finds her voice in a world that too often shuts her down and renders her invisible. This play intends to help young audiences with disabilities see themselves on stage. It is also for able-bodied folks to rethink how society includes and excludes disabled bodies in day-to-day life. This piece will have audiences questioning how we can create new understandings of inclusion, especially when old methods are not working to help everyone find their voices and reach their potential.
“This is the show I needed when I was Ava’s age,” says Carly. “I can’t wait for kids with disabilities to see themselves in the show and learn that there is a whole world out there waiting for them to tell their stories.”
The play runs from March 26 to April 3 at the ATB Financial Arts Barns. Accessible performances that are ASL interpreted or have described audio are available, and tickets are available online.
