A WONDER-ful Experience
We are big fans of “Wonder” at 3LPlace – the book by R. J. Palacio, the movie based on it, and, now, the musical. After reading the novel together while meeting remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic, we had the special opportunity to attend a performance of the world premier production at the American Repertory Theater at Harvard University last month.
“Wonder” is the story of a bright and brave boy named Auggie, who was born with complex health challenges that make him look different. As he starts at a mainstream school for the first time in the 5th grade, he and his peers and family learn more about kindness and acceptance.
“It was an awesome culture trip. Many of our members don’t have regular access to events like these, and the energy was palpable,” said Meghan Montgomery, 3LPlace’s Chief Programming Officer and Clinical Director. She led the trip with Jen and J.
After the performance, we had the opportunity to meet Melvin Abston, the actor who played Mr. Tushman. Mr. Tushman’s name makes him the – ahem – butt of some jokes. In keeping with the story, we had a spirited conversation with the actor on the topic.
“When there are versions of a story like a book, film, and musical, it offers multiple ways to deepen the meaning. When comprehension is thorough, there is so much more to talk about and explore. Members really know Wonder, and the musical angle reinforced it.”
During our next few community meetings, we discussed the bullying that Auggie faces in the story and his responses to it. Members reflected on times they have been bullied, as well as times when they might have been the bully.
One member recalled his own experience with mainstream school: “Once when I was little and I was visiting the public school. Wasn’t a good fit. People laughed at me.” Another talked about “trying to move on” from people who won’t leave him alone.
As for times when we might have some traits of a bully ourselves, a member said that “I have a lot of strong opinions and if someone doesn’t have the same views I can get difficult. The dog store – a lady had different views.”
“We spoke a lot about how we can always be kinder and help create space for kindness,” Meg said. “The author puts it so well in the story: ‘One should be kinder than needed.’ It’s beautiful to strive for that together and have such a full conversation on an important part of our character.”
EBT Card To Culture
Even if you know the story of Auggie and his family, you might not know about this terrific program in Massachusetts. The Department of Transitional Assistance and the Mass Cultural Council offer discounted admissions to many of the Commonwealth’s museums and cultural institutions.
All you have to do is let the organization know you have EBT benefits and show your EBT card at the venue in order to get the discount. Because some of our members were willing to share this opportunity with us, we were able to see “Wonder” for only $5 apiece!
Find out more about the program and the hundreds of organizations that take part.
'You are Beautiful'
Watch Alison Luff, who plays Auggie’s mom in “Wonder,” perform “You are Beautiful” from the show. In it, she sings: “I hope you know/You are beautiful/brighter than a sky full of stars//What a wonder you are//I know it may seem/that life can be mean/That you’re in a bad dream/and it’s hard to wake up//Just look at me now/and know you’re allowed/to be proud/of what makes you different.”
