Sunday, August 17, 2008

Play with autism theme wins award

From The Cincinnati Enquirer:

'Theory of Mind" is the winner of the Macy's New Play Prize for Young Audiences at Playhouse in the Park.

Ken LaZebnik's drama tells the story of 16-year-old Bill, who has an incredible memory and great charm. He's also autistic. And in love.

"Theory of Mind" explores Bill's struggles to learn the social skills to achieve a successful relationship.

The play, performed by Playhouse's Lafley Touring Company, will tour throughout the region in March and April and be part of the Rosenthal Next Generation Theatre Series.

LaZebnik has written for television series such as "Star Trek: Enterprise," "Providence" and "Touched by an Angel." His screenplays include "A Prairie Home Companion."

His most recent play, "Vestibular Sense," won the 2007 Osborn New Play Award from the American Theatre Critics Association. His other plays include "League of Nations," "Sink Eating" and "Calvinisms."

He served as Dean of the Stephens College School of Performing Arts in Columbia, Mo, from 2005 to 2007.