Cooper Buckallew, sophomore, has been cast to take on that challenge. 

Buckallew, who played in the ensemble of the spring musical production of “The Drowsy Chaperone,” said he has gotten help from a friend who is on the spectrum who gave him feedback before he went for his callback. 

“She told me to avoid eye contact while delivering my lines,” Buckallew said. 

Buckallew does have concerns for his role, as to his knowledge he’s never met a person with Asperger’s, which is the specific condition of his character. Someone with Asperger’s may have restricted interests and repetitive behaviors and above-average intelligence.

“One thing I have thought about a lot when I got this role is how I’m going to deliver the lines,” Buckallew said. 

He is also concerned about the fact that it may be controversial, as he doesn’t know how it would be taken if an actor is acting autistic but isn’t actually on the spectrum.  Though he’s excited for the role. 

“I thought this would be a great opportunity for me,” Buckallew said. 

Before callbacks were held to determine the cast, theater director Rebecca Young sought out guidance from special education teacher Molly Straumann.

“[Mrs. Young] approached me if I could come down and talk to students during their final call back to discuss students’ needs and characteristics of the autism spectrum,” Straumann said.

Because the lead is being portrayed by an actor who is not on the autism spectrum, it may raise concern but Straumann said that there is a proper way to approach this role.

“As long as it’s done in an honorable way and they really take value in the part and aren’t mocking or making fun of the character but keeping that character with dignity and understanding that everyone has struggles,” Straumann said.

Straumann said she will work with the lead to offer guidance and support for whatever he may have questions about during his rehearsal.

“Whenever he needs support, I will be available to help because it is a sensitive subject and you don’t want to offend that population of people and make sure you are not portraying the character in a negative connotation,” Straumann said.

The nature of this play brings more awareness and interest toward people on the spectrum who may be misunderstood, Straumann said. It will be an opportunity for viewers to break out of their box of how they see others.

“I’m excited about it and I think it’s good for people to get out of their comfort zones and see there are students on the spectrum,” Straumann said. “I’m glad it’s becoming more available and noticed.”