Actor With Autism Takes Center Stage

As the star of a professional production of “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time,” Mickey Rowe is making history as the first actor with autism cast in the play’s lead. Steeped in an industry that undervalues actors with disabilities, Rowe faced hardships trying to find work in a professional production. Now, by taking on the role of Christopher Boone, a character who demonstrates autistic behaviors, Rowe is reclaiming the narrative of those on the spectrum while using his platform to forge a path forward for actors with autism.
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[@marthar6919]

My son has Autism, and stories like this makes my heart jump for joy. Knowing that my son can be someone, be part of something big, or even just be himself in a world that is becoming more accepting and understands more about autism make me so happy, hopeful and joyful. Thank you so much for all the amazing stories you tell. You truly help others see the beauty of human kind.

[@BJGvideos]

Martha Negrete Why would that come as a revelation for you? It's the same as with anyone.

[@aus-li]

Sorry, but this isn't a severe case of autism. And nobody will ever understand the whole spectrum of autism, and how the severe cases slowly destroy the parent(s).

[@MsCherade9]

VoidX You would if you come from a whole extended family of people on the spectrum. Trust me.

[@aus-li]

MsCherade9 I don't know, dude, you could try, but the brain is too complex for anyone to understand.

[@therockstar5027]

Autistic kids are more intelligent than normal people proper tuning and guidance will make them achievers

[@AtlanticGiantPumpkin]

As an actress with autism myself, I'm very pleased to say I've had a few leading roles. It's usually for slightly awkward characters, like one time I played a science nerd, the second time a version of Cinderella that was obsessed with philosophy, and the third a small child. I'd love to play a character with autism, though. I wish there were a play about Temple Grandin. That would be amazing.

[@Anime_theatre_lover]

I played Walter Hobbs in elf and I’m autistic

[@mksabourinable]

"I use acting every day of my life ... so it come very naturally to me. ... I use scripting all the time" THIIIIIIIIS I'm autistic too, and every time people don't understand that autistic people actually make good actors I just scream internally. It's SO frustrating. Like non-autistic people play us, and get fucking awards for it, but when we play NTs?? Nothing. Especially because we have a hard time getting roles in the first place!!

[@MxSpoike]

As someone who has autism, I've always found acting very easy. My day to day interactions and outwards emotional reactions are essentially acting already, so it makes the switch to the stage very natural.

[@lild4131998]

MxSpoike Exactly, I have ASD as well it's easy to act for those reasons.

[@MsCherade9]

MxSpoike Indeed, I started acting while very ypung in school productions as well as singing on stage, but it's only now at 38 I'm about to be officially diagnosed.

[@dragongamer4753]

As a sociopath i find the same thing true. Although I dont do any professional acting (or have ever been in a school play for that matter) I still find myself able to get into a role if im trying to do an impression like say adolph hitler if i try to read one of his speeches

[@soulsofevil1117]

@@dragongamer4753 This is satire correct?

[@dragongamer4753]

@@soulsofevil1117 idk i dont remember what happened 2 years ago. Now if you'll excuse me I have a liver with fava beans to eat. Yes

[@NegyoTV]

Thank you for all these very inspiring videos. I wish everyone here a good day.

[@miniena7774]

...no offense.

[@mikhail8187]

Eh, not really. My dad just got in a car crash so idk

[@lalanovali]

I’m autistic and this is soooo inspiring for me!!! disabled people truly lack representation and it’s baffling how much we are portrayed by people that don’t have disabilities.

[@lianaburless1835]

I am glad to see this. My daughter is 20 with autism. She wants to get in to acting. She said she was affraid nobody will hire her or give her a chance because of her autism and not be patient with her. I told her to start with plays and acting classes. That she can do it even if it takes her long just dont give up.

[@LittleOxfordSt]

I am also a person on the spectrum who loves drama and it’s so awesome and heartwarming to see not only a person on the spectrum spreading a story about a boy on the spectrum but that that story has been so wonderfulky received. Hopefully this leads to a more informed and accepting world-view (and world!) for many 😊

[@kgpalermo360]

Autism doesn't make any humans stupid , it's more likely they were given a very good passion to their talents that makes them smart and talented but for a price of lacking social intellegence .

[@floralspectre]

This is awesome!! I saw the show in London last year and it's great.

[@arya3528]

Flower Ghost yeah me too

[@paulwalsh6395]

Truly spectacular

[@jamesstill7891]

Mickey Rowe is incredible in Indiana Repertory Theatre's production of "The Curious Incident..." and this sends a powerful and positive message to everyone about how artists with any disabilities have so much to add to the artistic process and experience. Thanks for sharing this video -- and congrats to Mickey and the wonderful cast, to director Risa Brainin, and everyone at Indiana Rep for making a great audience experience!

[@rebeccawilson7088]

having asd being in theater for awhile and whenever i cosplay being in charecter really has for awhile improved me socializing in general. as well as whenever i do pull over a charecter and people say i did well really lights my world. thank you for posting this!

[@HarrisonTBr0wn]

i saw this play in the theatre last year... it was very good, i watched in southampton

[@hydevanhelsing5063]

Im on the spectrum and I love acting as well! I really believe that it can be a great outlit for everyone, regardless if they have a disability or not.

[@yaboiblake9304]

I saw him in that production in Indiana with my school a while ago. It was fantastic, I wish I could see it again and again. It was absolutely stunning. Keep up the good work! I wish you luck in your career 😊

[@ADee99s]

Is it The Curious Incident of The Dog in The Nightime? I recognize the lines, the dog on the pitchfork especially. I love the book! Looking forward to the production

[@Ivan-pt8hz]

he says it is in the video so yea, it is

[@ADee99s]

Ivan I guess I didn't pay that much of an attention. My bad

[@panicatthelucieeurie8444]

People making rude comment don’t seem to understand that yes we have autism but also we’re not stupid we know and understand what your saying it’s hurtful please be kind he seems like an amazing actor :)

[@hollylovejoy5073]

I saw this show last night - it was absolutely amazing. I am so glad I got to see Mickey Rowe perform as Cristopher, especially since I loved the book.

[@shmoovin4360]

Such a heartfelt story which needs to be spread

[@villainousthing]

What an incredibly amazing, inspiring, admirable person!! I wish you the best of luck in any and all of your performances, Mickey!!!

[@Yaxoi]

The way he explains it, theater should actually be much more attractive than it is for people on the spectrum, seeing that everything is scripted.

[@MsCherade9]

Yaxoi It is attractive to those of us on the spectrum, it's just that neurotypical people run the theatre and film business. If you don't immediately fit in they don't want you.

[@ratgoblin1740]

That's exactly how I feel, I'm autistic and I love acting. It's basically my dream come true because I'm told exactly what to say and where to stand and how to act when I do it, and I get lots of time to practice doing and saying the things so I can make sure they come out right. Much easier than regular life lol.

[@CourtneyEWashington]

I'm an autistic actress and director myself; I actually just finished a show this weekend. I've been showing this video to everyone lately because I just get this guy. I think I'd love to direct this play at some point.

[@phantomsights4533]

I’m actually playing Christopher Boone in my community theatre’s production of A Curious Incident of a Dog in the Nighttime and I also have Autism and Asperger’s Syndrome, which is what Christopher has. I feel very connected to this role since I know what it’s like to feel and be different than everyone else and have those quirks that make people think you’re strange or don’t belong. I will never have the same experiences as Christopher both in his story and how he views the world, but I know that it can be very challenging and that you have people that will support you throughout your life. This role means a lot to me, and I’m excited to play this role, and it meant so much to get it and play my first lead and Star role in theatre, which I love with all my heart.

[@Anime_theatre_lover]

I’m am an autistic teenager who does theatre and this is so inspiring to me. A lot of people like me get underestimated

[@LilianaGarcia-hu1sr]

this is awe-inspiring

[@may-1148]

I LOVED this book growing up! I had no idea it was adapted for the stage!

[@riverstreets4471]

I'm playing the character of Christopher soon, this was really helpful for me to accurately portray his character. Thank you for sharing this!

[@garrisonclay6382]

Ash The Panda Me too!

[@Anime_theatre_lover]

I’m autistic and I’m playing the role. I am female :)

[@rashat6143]

You are amazing man😍

[@andrewwebb7584]

I saw the show in Leeds a few months ago. Definitely worth seeing!

[@dare2ski588]

I love the Hamilton reference at the end! Its so awesome!!!

[@catbiscuit6107]

I really liked this book. I am glad they are making it a production.

[@Chaotic_Observer]

Ahhhh i love these sorts of things, i love this play 😫💖

[@getwrecked1852]

Amazing! Great Big Story, can you talk more about mental health and people with mental illnesses and disabilities?

[@cindicopeland9731]

This is such an uplifting story!

[@jordanholmes9713]

I’m just happy someone’s done it you go!

[@susheehan9354]

Saw it in Dallas. It was awesome!

[@spookyrosev6467]

Man I so relate, I’m also autistic and have my headphones a lot and I’m going through job coaching and social communication classes.

[@user-il6xu9cv3o]

As someone with Aspergers I get this in a way. I’ve always loved acting and I’m just so into it when I begin. Of course, I’m terrified of doing in in front of a large crowd of people. But, maybe I’ll be able to face my fears someday.

[@silverstar1251]

that ending...was that a...HAMILTON REFERENCE?! jokes aside, this is so heartwarming. despite not being on the spectrum, im so freaking inspired by Mickey's story and i cant wait to see more of his achievements

[@aidanmcclendon319]

Dude props that takes skill and guts

[@mymovingpixels]

This is awsome to see someone with Autism get a main role in a musical. You see, I have Asperger's Sydrome. It's on the Autistic spectrum, where it doesn't effect me too much but social interaction with other people is still hard for me. I'm actually a aspiring actor like him, but I haven't gotten a main role in any musical yet. Hopefully one day, I will get a main role in a musical as well.

[@greenergrass4060]

im so proud of him!

[@BBTomahawk12]

I have the book. Enjoyed it very much

[@AnonymousCaveman]

I found this a great watch especially since I'm an inspiring actor who also has autism.

[@teocartes1777]

I think its one of the best shows I've ever watched. Its a must if you go to London. The book is also great:)

[@khyen1]

it's all about knowing what to expect. so very very true.........

[@zaydenrichard2857]

Hi there, this was a great video

[@charlesjulessalazar6721]

seriosly this is amazing

[@BJGvideos]

Bunny L0verz I'm confused as to why. I'm autistic too and there's nothing really special here.

[@shahrzadmassiha7253]

I read the book and I think he is a perfect fit for Christopher

[@derangedcrowd]

I watched this live in August!

[@blulu8620]

derangedcrowd ME TOO

[@heather95]

He's so inspiring and sweet! Everyone should watch atypical on Netflix, btw:)

[@marlie4872]

That is my favorite musical/book!!

[@briahnadeanda5574]

I loved that book! How can I see the production??

[@surgeonsplode4065]

Kudos!

[@HawkinaBox]

The Curious Incident was such an interesting book!!!

[@emiliobello2538]

I hope they make a film or miniseries of this

[@AstorReinhardt]

I have Asperger's...and I can't imagine how he's doing this...I hate having attention directed towards me. Makes me super uncomfortable and it makes me freak out because my mind goes blank and I'm unsure what to do.

[@OriginProductions1963]

Seeing as it's a spectrum condition. It's possible for some Autistic people to love attention, whilst others are more withdrawn. (I myself am a bit of both, I like having time to myself, but I also value conversation and attention.) Besides there are already many ASD Actors. (A.K.A Dan Aykroyd, Jim Carrey, Sir Anthony Hopkins...etc..etc..) And those are the ones who have disclosed thier Autism/Aspergers. (Who knows who else in the acting world has the condition!) So, it's definitely not impossible to succeed in the "acting world" And honestly I myself want to get into the acting gig. Because it's fun, different and definitely exciting. And seeing as we ASD/Aspie folk are a bit weird ourselves and most Actors are quite eccentric folk. It's a perfect fit!

[@ajc5884]

This is inspiration

[@lingy74]

It’s not a disability. I would not change it for the world. I feel a sense of connection to the universe and a sense of awe and love that I can’t describe or put to words. I look around and everyone seems concerned with things that do not matter. Autistic people speak from the heart, not with words.

[@sarahmcp.3671]

boi cryied to this in Class stmwear to god Yhis inspired me so muxh

[@HAMF9666]

I'm also autistic and I want to become an actor.

[@Vampiria000]

Beautiful 💖💖💖

[@yovanna812]

I love you. Amazing. Inspirational - the new York times

[@paulflood1969]

Best book ever

[@jessicajayes8326]

My town is doing this show, I have AuDHD and I'll try out for it!

[@blulu8620]

I WATCHED HIM PLAY IN THE PLAY IT ITS VERY GOOD PLAY LOL

[@kirbygarcia3385]

I love his acting I have a cousin who has autism and she is in her preitoty school drama class

[@roastingchestnut]

Can relate to the acting my whole life part

[@crystalelk]

BRAVO! Sending Positive vibes your way! PEACE LOVE & DREAMS!🇨🇦 💝🗺🌐📷🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟✔👌😁😏😉🎭🕊💞💭❣🎬

[@miniena7774]

Covonuts Ew.

[@jelliiii6338]

The Canadian flag tho... hehe

[@barackobama9745]

He sounds like matpat

[@mdante_t]

Yea man

[@antagonist8629]

Looks like him too Smells like him too

[@Auswo77]

I have autism as well.

[@madisonby2490]

Voltage BG Embrace it.

[@soupwithchipschips]

This is pretty cool but i wonder what happens when he does something that was not supposed to happen but the audience doesnt know because, they think its part of act

[@dragonsareawesome123]

I'm pretty sure that if any actor makes a mistake on stage, they're just supposed to keep going or play it off to convince the audience that it's a part of the act.

[@OriginProductions1963]

@@dragonsareawesome123 Correct, It's called improving. Usually occurs when an actor forgets a line of dialogue so they try and make something up on the spot within the same vain of the original spoken line. Because of course to go from "Well isn't that just great?! You do realise that you've completely messed this up?!" To "Well, actually I could do with a cup of tea!" Would CLEARLY be evident of a mess up in the performance.

[@it7612]

Those blue eyes 😍

[@fjaajf]

They're disabled, not dead. Respect

[@baigalmaakhorol1412]

👏👏👏Amazing

[@samramirez2810]

hes wearing a black lives matter shirt! that awesome :)

[@agenrisco2606]

Looks like the internet is having a good day💛

[@woxof46]

To be honest even though I have autism, I don't think it's a terrible thing to have. Sure sometimes I'm a little awkward in conversations and sit in strange positions at times, but I believe it helps more than anything. No one at school criticizes me for having this either; I'm just the happy guy who holds the door open and says "Hello".

[@jessecogan8756]

I fucken LOVE this book!!

[@mashitey]

The Good Actor 👍

[@Rawan-sl1ms]

OMG OMG I WATCHED THIS AT BRADFORD ALAHMBRA SAW THIS GUY I DIDNT KNOW HE ACTUALLY HAD AUTISM good show though

[@4N9vxO3WnK]

Nice

[@SAli-uh3qr]

❤️❤️❤️

[@brokenlaurel4606]

Tell me how this person can easily engage in conversation

[@brokenlaurel4606]

I'm freakin jealous

[@OriginProductions1963]

@@brokenlaurel4606 I too am on the spectrum and I can easily engage in a conversation also. Do I still have awkward pauses at times? Yes. Especially if the speaker isn't trying to make a conversation. And It's honestly hard to even start a small talk conversation with someone when they simply don't want engage in an actual conversation in the first place!

[@OriginProductions1963]

Also it's been shown that acting can greatly benefit someone with ASD as it gives them a playing field to develop their social skills and recognising non-verbal cues. Thankfully the only major symptom of ASD I struggle with.

[@brokenlaurel4606]

@@OriginProductions1963 sometimes if ive been talking to people a lot, my speech capabilities just completely shut down for like 3 minutes and i cant say anything. I also just get overwhelmed in general from too much socializing

[@OriginProductions1963]

@@brokenlaurel4606 You see. That's never happened to me. Just goes to show how varied we all are as Humans. NT or ND.

[@dove6069]

Aytpical season 2 main actor?

[@AlexTheCrayChick]

bold of you to assume atypical would ever hire autistic actors as anything other than very minor characters

[@user-yt7rb7er2b]

Good👍

[@Null-Red-Blue]

The author said that the main character wasn’t autistic.

[@fanofallaroundaudreyandjus544]

I have adhd

[@juliaray5277]

everyone liked that.

[@Gamferno]

What is Autism?

[@lilguzy4790]

I have ADHD

[@BambooAMG]

What is autism exactly ?

[@Aaron-cg7nn]

vaccines

[@BJGvideos]

BambooAMG A neurological condition that impacts things like social interaction and sensory input.

[@BJGvideos]

squindyz Cut that out.

[@blulu8620]

squindyz I am assuming you are joking

[@lucafilip5032]

Haha seen that in the theatre

[@Bluedrizzle719]

I have autism too... and it's similar for me... I used to not talk at all for years until around late high school and around college when I started scripting and acting like others by saying How are you, how is your day? I say it because people say it... I had this point in my life in my late high school years when someone used the bible to tell me I was a coward for not talking, they had a problem with me not talking in the church, which they call fellowship when people interact with each other but I was actually autistic and didn't know it... so when that happened, I started to talk but said things that people didn't like... because i didn't know how to interact, then i went to college and some people didn't like me because I said things about them and all that started because the person from the church telling me I was a coward for not speaking, so I started speaking and saying things that people didn't like but I didn't know people didn't like, I just took it as I wasn't being a coward by talking about what they were doing... I realized the effect it had on people around me, I stopped doing it... left that church... became more spiritual... I wasnt on the same level socially as others, I developed slower in that part of my life but that didn't mean I am not intelligent or didn't have talents and skills... I communicate better now but I had spent years of my life being the awkward one socially so while other people have developed quicker socially and found their niche quicker, I didn't and couldn't because for a long time it seems like people didn't choose me for jobs because of how socially awkward I was... and they don't like that... but it really depends on the job... I had to find a way to get income in a way that worked for me with my natural skills and didn't require interaction, or very minimal... but since I'm still autistic, there's a lot of help I can benefit from and I believe people that have autism can use some help especially if they don't have basic human necessities because of their autism... them being wired differently means they might need help getting things they need because it's harder for them socially to go and get it... some people with autism get diagnosed with a mental disorder even though everything stems from them being autistic but not knowing. I really like what this guy is doing, it's inspirational... and I can see myself acting too and doing skits...

[@soshowme9405]

He's actually kinda cute 😅😂

[@liliantilope4880]

J'ai pas compris mais oklm. Abonnez-vous je rends.

[@ninatorres1884]

Hey

[@sunnowo]

Well, now autism is kinda proven to not equal stupid. I think we need to find a new birth defect to make fun of.

[@america1754]

You ?

[@ihavenoclevername8300]

Лазарьラザロ shots fired!

[@ok-wi7kt]

Лазарьラザロ Cancer is already being made fun of

[@ngdj999]

what

[@totalytaco3715]

decease

[@franklintangelo3456]

First

[@robloxscream7896]

Franklin&Tangelo 345 youre third im first

[@sensey01]

He is handsom though

[@zi_yeah]

seyitcan senpinar "though"?

[@sensey01]

Haroon tho

[@zi_yeah]

seyitcan senpinar I think you just meant to say, "He is handsome."