Real Life

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Brett Williams

Cast members of 'Real Life,' Encore Studios, 2026.

Cast members of 'Real Life,' Encore Studios, 2026.

Madison is fortunate enough to be home to Encore Studio, one of the few performing arts troupes in the United States devoted to actors with disabilities. There are a number of reasons to check out this production — the group is celebrating its 25th anniversary; it has a new performance space; and this production is a rare remount of Real Life, an original play by KelsyAnne Schoenhaar, the group’s executive director. And Schoenhaar will also appear in the play, which follows four individuals on the autism spectrum. Shows at 8 p.m. Fridays and 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.

media release:  5/29-6/7, at 8 pm Friday and 2 pm Saturday-Sunday (note new dates).

 Encore Studio for the Performing Arts celebrates its 25th anniversary season with a revival of Real Life, an original full-length play written by Executive Director and CEO KelsyAnne Schoenhaar. Kelsy also stars in this production along with a cast of Encore’s repertory actors. The production runs May 29, 30, 31 & June 5, 6, 7 at the Martin Street Theatre, Encore’s new performance space. *Each Saturday Matinee features a talkback with Encore’s company of actors, directors, playwrights and technicians!*

For 25 years, Encore Studio has created and produced original theatre by and for artists with disabilities, establishing a nationally recognized model for inclusive performance and storytelling. Since its founding, the organization has premiered hundreds of original works, amplifying voices and perspectives rarely centered on stage.

Artistic Director Heather Renken says “ Real Life is a tour de force performance by Kelsy and a rare glimpse into the lives and thoughts of people with autism.” 

Originally premiering at Madison’s Bartell Theatre in 2004, Real Life explores the experiences of four individuals navigating life on the autism spectrum. The play examines themes of communication, independence, and connection, challenging assumptions about what it means to live fully and authentically. Blending drama and music, the production offers audiences an intimate look at lives shaped by both intellectual strength and social complexity. 

This production also marks a rare onstage appearance by Schoenhaar, who will perform in the show. While widely known as a playwright and arts leader, Schoenhaar seldom performs live, making this anniversary production a unique opportunity for audiences to see the work’s creator return to the stage.

The revival comes as conversations around neurodiversity and representation continue to grow nationally, underscoring Encore Studio’s long-standing commitment to inclusive storytelling and artist-driven work.

“The year’s most beautiful show.”

“One of the most moving theatrical productions I’ve seen in some time.”

— Kenneth Burns, Isthmus

“Engaging and authentic… a near perfect marriage of script and talent.”

— Jan Neudeck, Madison Magazine

$25 General Admission

$15 seniors

$5 students/people with disabilities.

General Admission and limited seating so reserve your tickets early!

Go to encorestudio.org/tickets now!