Matteo Esposito is “Sorting It Out” and bringing autism awareness to the New York stage

July 28, 2023July 29, 2023 Arpita Ghosal

Bob Cook as Bob Brown and Matteo Esposito as Nick Kinderwood in a scene from the world-premiere production of Sorting It Out in Oakville, Ontario, directed by Anthony Tullo and produced by Jean Paul Michellepis (photo courtesy of Matteo Esposito)

Matteo Esposito is an Oakville-based budding artist with a unique set of talents.

He’s a student studying Tech Production at Sheridan College.

He’s also a playwright, singer-songwriter and set designer who, at a very young age, is already making a mark in the performing arts industry.

He can whistle loudly with his fingers, which he laughingly tells me “is a great skill if you’re in the audience!!”

And his most important gift? He’s autistic.

22-year-old Matteo comes from a family of musicians, including the Colombia Records signed band “Walk off the Earth” and up and coming Canadian Country Rock Artist Anthony Tullo. His latest play Sorting It Out was born from a challenging personal experience he had on an Oakville Transit bus. Rather than dwell on the causes of the incident (which involved his autism), he focused his energy on the result that it catalyzed. “I decided to take that negative encounter and turn it into a teachable moment,” he explains. In his play, he crafted a “redemption story about treating others kindly and with compassion, who are different from regular neurotypical people”. Through Sorting It Out, Matteo hopes to spread a powerful message to be kind and show compassion. “Words matter”, and his modest hope is that audiences of his play will be a little more inclined to lead with empathy, rather than judge others who act differently.

For those eager to see Sorting It Out on the New York City stage, performances begin on August 3, 2023 at 7 pm at New Circle Theater Company (which is not accessible). In the play, Frank’s son confronts his preconceptions and misperceptions when he unexpectedly crosses paths with Nik, his father’s Autistic friend. Through this encounter, Ed’s own struggles come to light, leading him to understand that seeking assistance in life is not a sign of weakness. Ultimately, the play emphasizes that despite our external differences, we share more similarities than distinctions, promoting the idea of acceptance and understanding. Four experienced New York actors, Will Ketter, Giselle Elise, Glenn Stoops and Jeffrey Roth will perform the play in its US premiere, produced by New York City nonprofit theater company Play Readings with Friends, directed by the company’s Artistic Director Jon L. Peacock.

To Matteo’s surprise and gratitude, several productions of Sorting It Out have already met with popular acclaim. And he is excited that this work is making its way to the stage in New York City. “This production was a few years in the making. I am thrilled to be bringing the script down and doing the show OFF OFF BROADWAY!” he exclaims proudly. Notably, Matteo wears multiple hats for this production as both playwright and set and props designer.

Matteo’s openness about his autism is a significant aspect of his artistry. When asked if the people who watch his plays will gain a better understanding of how to interact with individuals on the autism spectrum, he responds with hope: “Yes. Hopefully they will. I mean — that’s what we all should do to bash stereotypes and gain a better understanding of the world and people around us.” At the same time, he knows that understanding can only be offered: “You can lead a horse to water, but you cannot make them drink it!”

Model of set pieces for Sorting It Out, Scene 3, designed by Matteo Esposito (photo courtesy of Matteo Esposito)

Matteo is justifiably proud of the interest garnered by his plays and sets. And not only is he passionate about his own craft — he is encouraging of other up-and-coming artists. He has three pieces of advice for those hoping to make it in the arts: “believe in yourself, work hard, and never ever give up!”

In addition to Sorting It Out, Matteo is also designing the set and props for a one-woman off-off-Broadway show, which is also about autism. “It will be on at the same time as Sorting It Out at the Tank in NYC,” he explains. “Called The Power of O, the show [by Olivia Nguyen] features a diverse team of neurotypicals and people with disabilities! You can stream this show, as well! More info can be found here.”

Sorting It Out is on a double-bill with The Azure Sky in Oz: Yellow by William Leavengood from August 3 to August 13 at The Sandbox Theater in New York City. Click here to reserve tickets online. Audiences are invited to remain for talkbacks after each performance, and additional information on Autism will be available from local Advocacy not-for-profit organizations.

In a world where theatre can create opportunity and enable empathy and understanding, Matteo’s future as a playwright, set designer and advocate for autism awareness is bright. His art seems destined to touch hearts and challenge perceptions, while reminding us that the stage can be a powerful platform for change.

Visit Matteo’s website here.