Next Steps students and teachers celebrate together with Respite Day event

On December 3, The International Day of Persons with Disabilities, First Stage hosted a Respite Day event for participants in its Next Steps program, the Theater Academy classes designed for young people on the autism spectrum. Held at the Milwaukee Youth Arts Center, Respite Day allowed for past and present Next Steps students to enjoy a day of holiday fun while continuing having a strong bond with others, as well as a bit of a break for their caregivers.

Eleven students joined with 12 neuro-typical teachers and interns played fun games, painted snowman ornaments and built marshmallow snowmen while watching Frosty the Snowman and Frosty Returns. 

“Respite Day was an amazing opportunity for us to bring students together for a day of community building and fun,” said Brenna Kempf, Associate Academy Director and Director of Next Steps. “Many of our families shared that the day was very easy for their children, as they are already so comfortable with First Stage. A new event or experience can be anxiety-provoking, especially for someone with autism, but the familiarity of the facility and staff made this a stress-free day for our students,” Kempf continued. 

One of Kempf’s favorite moments was while the students and teachers were watching the Frosty movies. “When the magic hat was placed on Frosty's head, some of our students began marching around the room, singing along to the theme song of Frosty the Snowman,” recalled Kempf. Mirroring the children marching through the town with their new friend, our students encouraged one another to join the group in the parade. The participants met the invitation with a “yes, and” attitude – one that is highly valued in the Theater Academy! Students, teachers, and interns of all different ages marched and sang in unison.

“It was so heartwarming to see the magic of the season and the magic of community in that moment,” Kempf continued.

In addition to the Theater Academy classes that are part of the Next Steps program, First Stage offers sensory friendly performances of select productions throughout its season, including the upcoming sensory friendly performance of A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS on Thursday, December 21. Tickets are available by phone at (414) 267-2961, or visit www.FirstStage.org/sensoryfriendly for more information.