COVID-19 Musical Performed By Theater Group With Disabilties

FREDERICKSBURG, VA — STEP VA will sponsor "A Special COVID-19," a two-act musical that is written, directed, and performed by a cast and crew of people with disabilities. The show will take the stage in Fredericksburg on April 17 and 18.

The show will premiere at the Fredericksburg Christian School at 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, April 17. The cast and crew will perform again at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, April 18. Seating will be limited due to the ongoing pandemic, but the performance on the Saturday will also be livestreamed for those who cannot attend in-person.

Tickets for all performances, including the livestream, are on sale now. Tickets can be purchased on STEP VA's website. All tickets must be purchased in advance, as no tickets will be sold at the door.

Noah Finch is a longtime STEP VA participant, a musician, a Fredericksburg native, and a director. He is also an autistic man. "Having friends makes our rehearsals easier," Finch said in a news release. "Everybody knows each other and is comfortable."

Finch originally channeled his feelings about the pandemic into a song. With the encouragement of STEP VA staff, he turned that one song into a two-act musical with songs covering several genres.

Originally, the cast and crew rehearsed online every week. "It’s more difficult than rehearsals in person," Finch said. "But they’re doing their best."

Recently, the cast was able to start rehearsing in person and preparing for the technical aspects of the show. The cast has also followed CDC guidelines, wearing masks and social distancing during rehearsals. "The excitement is palpable from everyone involved," STEP VA said in a news release.

Emilia Michaud is a member of the cast. Michaud said she is enjoying learning the script and having fun with her friends. "The best part is the music," Michaud said. "I love the songs."

Michaud was a member of her high school's chorus, but this is her first musical theater role. "I feel special that I was chosen as one of the primary roles."

STEP VA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing theater and arts programs for people with disabilities. To donate or learn more, people can visit their website.