Home / Arts and Entertainment / Rosie O'Donnell Joins Autism Musical 'Indigo' as Producer
Rosie O'Donnell Joins Autism Musical 'Indigo' as Producer
27 Aug
Summary
- Rosie O'Donnell is a new producer for the musical 'Indigo'.
- The musical focuses on autism through a non-speaking teenager's perspective.
- Producers plan a London transfer for the musical in late 2027.
Rosie O'Donnell, a prominent autism advocate, has joined the producing team for the new original musical, 'Indigo.' The musical offers a unique portrayal of an unconventional family, narrated through the experiences of a non-speaking autistic teenager.
O'Donnell was inspired to join the production after witnessing its premiere in the UK. Producers Lorenzo Thione, Joey Monda, and Jay Kuo announced her involvement, with plans to bring 'Indigo' to London in late 2027.
Described by O'Donnell as the "most beautiful and authentic depiction of autism in a kid," the musical explores themes of family, mistakes, and connection across three generations of women. It delves into Alzheimer's, addiction, and loss, centering on Emma, a neurodivergent teen whose internal world is richly depicted.
The creative team, including book writer Kait Kerrigan and composer/lyricist Scott Evan Davis, has prioritized engaging neurodivergent artists throughout the production process. Actors playing the lead role of Emma have consistently been neurodivergent.
Davis, who has a personal connection to the autism community as an educator and board member of Epic Players, stated the goal was not to explain autism, but to share a story of a child who is not broken and deserves to be seen. O'Donnell's participation reaffirms this commitment.
