Автоматизированный актер с аутизмом доказывает, что театр помогает преодолеть стереотипы

Ray Lorang compared himself to an extroverted, midwestern mom as he searched for a photo of his first theatrical role: corn in Lincoln Elementary’s production of “Oklahoma!” “Ten years — I’ve been doing (theater) my entire life, ever since I started first grade,” Lorang said. An incoming sophomore at White Bear Lake Area High School, Lorang has been a part of multiple middle school musicals as well as White Bear’s productions of “Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Cinderella” last fall. This past summer, Lorang played Doody in “Grease,” standing out in a standout cast. When asked why he thought his portrayal of Doody attracted attention, Lorang paused before laughing, “Because of my autism, really.” Lorang is aware that the public perception of people with autism is of a person who is withdrawn or socially awkward. Lorang feels that, by acting on stage, he can create a more nuanced picture in people’s minds about those with autism. “When you see an autistic person, you don’t usually see someone that’s so excited to be around (people). I actually hate being alone. I’m an extrovert.” Lorang said. “I’m very much the opposite of what you think.” Lorang noted that, introvert or extrovert, theater is a great activity for young people with autism. “If you want your kid to be in an inclusive environment that’s going to challenge them and get them physical activity while also not being too over-the-top, theater’s great, especially musicals,” Lorang said. He added that people with autism who don’t like bright lights will enjoy working on the crew side of production while those who hate dark spaces will thrive on stage. Lorang, specifically, thrives in the spotlight. “I love the sound of my own voice,” Lorang said. “I love singing. I love dancing … the joy to perform and the ability to make others happy.”