In "a week and only half a day," as Acting Up Theater Company Owner Barbara Distinti said, young actresses and actors prepared for the recent showing of The Most Epic Birthday Party Ever.The Most Epic Birthday Party Ever shares the story of children attending a birthday party. When all of the adults appear to vanish, the children "essentially have to come up with their own society."The Most Epic Birthday Party Ever was presented at Edmond Town Hall on Friday, August 26, in the morning. Admission was free to the event, which the public was invited to attend.actinguptheater.com, and Ms Distinti said she is considering returning to offer the program next summer for local youths.

On Wednesday, August 24, Ms Distinti described her company as "an adaptive theater company." Ms Distinti said she and speech pathologist Fran Wengart, a Newtown resident, focused on using evidence-based strategies to support the students in learning social skills through the company's productions.

"I always felt drama was a great way to do that naturally," said Ms Distinti.

Ms Distinti said the company always chooses to offer theater productions that focus on "being a good friend."

Ms Distinti said her company began last year at Easton Country Day School, where she and Ms Wengart met. Ms Distinti teaches drama at the school.

This summer, Ms Distinti said she sought out a space with air conditioning for the one-week program, which was open to children in the area.

"And having this kind of space," Ms Distinti said, gesturing to the stage, curtains, and lighting at Edmond Town Hall, "the kids really love it more."

Edmond Town Hall intern Patrick Downey helped the program by overseeing lighting and sound for the production. Sisters Emma and Macey Lawton also helped this summer, along with therapists for some of the participants.

There were 12 children in the cast, ranging in age from 10 to 14, with some from Newtown.

"They are incredibly motivated and incredibly talented," said Ms Distinti about her cast members.

The Acting Up Theater Company programs are for all levels of ability, Ms Distinti said, adding that she adapts each show to the children.

Edmond Town Hall Operations Manager Sheila Torres - who arranged for the Acting Up Theater Company to use the stage at Edmond Town Hall - said the program was a perfect fit, adding that she thought it was wonderful to have the space utilized in this way.

"We really are trying to do more live performances here," said Ms Torres.

More information about the Acting Up Theater Company is available on its website,