Young, Autistic and Stagestruck

Episode 2 (1x2)

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The programme gets better acquainted with some of the cast members and learns more about the realities of their daily life. Jonathan, 12, was diagnosed with autism just 18 months ago after many troublesome years at school, where the teachers thought he was bright but difficult. Poor or late diagnosis is a common issue that affects many families living with autism, and Jonathan's mum had no idea that her son was on the spectrum. The project is an eye-opener for both Jonathan and his family, who have never before seen him interact with other children with autism. In his quest for independence, Alexander, 16, takes the Tube to the theatre on his own for the first time. It is a big breakthrough for this bright teenager, raised on a council estate by a single mother, and the start of a personal journey to face new challenges. Meanwhile, Mollie's mum elaborates on her reasons for taking part in the project: 'I wish the world was different and autism wasn't there. The whole reason for this is showing people how difficult life is with having a sibling, a child or a friend that is diagnosed with autism; to help them understand that they deserve a life as much as everybody else in the world.' These feelings are echoed by Jozsef's mum: 'You try not to worry but you're thinking 'where is he going to end up?'' As the youngsters begin to work together, drawing on their skills and talents, this ambitious and uplifting series reveals increased independence, blossoming romances, and the first tentative steps towards working together as a group and making friends, some for the first time. The programme observes the ups and downs through the eyes of the youngsters and their families as the cast prepares for a performance in front of a packed audience at the Lyric Theatre, Hammersmith.