In June 2024, the cast members of "How to Dance in Ohio" brought Aspen Ideas: Health attendees to their feet with their performance and insights about neurodiversity and the arts. As openly autistic actors cast to play autistic characters, Conor Tague, Madison Kopec, Desmond Luis Edwards, Collin Hancock, Ayanna Thomas, and Marina Jansen reflected on the impact the production has had in fostering inclusion in the arts and beyond. They were joined by Emilio Amigo, the psychologist whose work with his autistic clients inspired a 2015 documentary and the musical adaptation. Watch the highlights and explore their big ideas!
Breaking Stigmas
Big IdeaPeople with autism strive in the arts, but you have to have a community and a village and a family to put you in those things.Ayanna Thomas
Big IdeaEverybody, autistic or not, has strengths and difficulties – so to just assume that people can’t do something, it hurts. But unfortunately, it is common.Madison Kopec
Embracing Representation
Big IdeaI remember being a little kid and wanting to see someone like me on stage. Being able to be that representation for so many people is truly an honor.Desmond Luis Edwards
Big IdeaWhen we interact with our fans at the stage door, they say, ‘I feel seen’ – and it’s the best feeling.Conor Tague
Expanding Accessibility
Big IdeaWe want to spread the idea about accessibility in the arts. Our show was a first and the entire crew– lights, sound, costume – will take what they learned and try to apply it to other companies.Collin Hancock
Big IdeaI love talking about the show with other theater majors. It has really expanded the minds of our generation.Marina Jansen
