Cast of new play is made up mostly of autistic children.

Byline: Bob Keefer The Register-Guard

A highly unusual stage production comes to Springfield's Wildish Theater on Sunday afternoon for one performance only.

The play is "The Mitten," an adaptation of a Ukrainian folk tale.

The unusual part is it's being produced with a cast of autistic children.

"We have a great cast," says director Jennifer Barwood, who also wrote the script. "I think folks who attend the play ... will be enlightened as to what it could mean to be diagnosed with autism."

Barwood, who has a degree in theater from the University of Oregon, is working with children from Bridgeway House, a nonprofit group that helps children with autism and Asperger's syndrome.

Though the disorder is not well understood, autism typically interferes with communication skills and social interactions, making theater challenging.

Barwood was recruited by Bridgeway founder Patricia Wigney, whose daughter, Zsofika, plays a tornado in "The Mitten." Wigney, who plays the Mitten of the title, is excited and realistic about the show and its cast, which has been rehearsing since early January.

"There is a lot of hope in this show, and I think it will bring joy to people," she said. "We are going to keep it so it doesn't look chaotic, as much as possible."

Other cast members include Olin Barwood, playing the Train; Rachel Brasted-Maki, Squirrel; Josh Emmons, Mouse; Alyssa Files, Winter Fairy; Annie Gould, Forest Fairy; Maya Naleid, Bear; and Hannah Rogers, Hare.

Adults in the production include Gerry Morgan, the narrator, and former Lane County Commissioner Anna Morrison, the voice of Grandmother. Emily Jensen composed music for the show and will be its accompanist.

Show time is 1 p.m. Tickets are $5 at the door. The show is free for children under 12.