There’s a unique production coming to Indiana University East this September.  An award-winning performance piece that addresses the complex subject of autism, Nothing is an incredibly thought-provoking production for anyone who is interested in the subjects of anti-bullying, autism awareness, or suicide prevention.

The performance will be held at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, September 6, in Vivian Auditorium, located in Whitewater Hall. The event is free and open to the public. Small group discussions will immediately follow the performance. The play is recommended for people ages 14 and over.

Nothing is a part of the “One Book, Many Voices” project at IU East. The event is sponsored by Mindful Explorations, courtesy of the William H. and Jean R. Reller Endowment

“The interactive play, Nothing, provides another perspective on the issue of bullying and supports on-going initiatives to make our community safe for every young person,” Marilyn Watkins, dean of the School of Education said.

Inspired by a true story and written by Nic Balthazar, Nothing is a multi-media play about Ben, a young man with autism who is struggling through the social grind that is high school. He retreats to a world of technology (MP3, video cameras, online gaming) in order to escape the tragic reality of constant bullying. When Ben meets Barbie in a divine online connection, he builds up the courage to venture out of his comfort zone and visit her in the flesh. This overwhelming escapade leads Ben into a dangerous situation, putting his own life at risk.

Nothing is premiering in the U.S. after finding its success in Europe. Video, music, and theater are presented through use of rhyme and modern technology. Bullying, autism awareness, and suicide prevention are brought to light through Nothing, a story at odds with the tragic reality. The show has been performed for the public as often as it has been performed in educational establishments, being used as a non-traditional form of educating students about different subjects of acceptance.

Unity Productions is a production company seeking to combine different art forms in order to enlighten, entertain, and enhance the community. The goal is to unite art in order to unite people.

For more information about the event, contact the School of Education at (765) 973-8224. For more information about Unity Productions and Nothing please visit http://unityproductionsohio.weebly.com/.