In the Light raises $60,000 to create venue for autistic performers

Organizers of In the Light, an autism acceptance concert and celebration, raised more than $60,000 on May 18 to establish a musical venue for individuals with autism, as well as fund improvements to Studio 39 in Annapolis.

"This concert was a major step forward in our goal of supporting the musical talents of individuals with autism," event organizer Andrea Bertrand said in a prepared statement. "We are thrilled the concert was such an amazing success."

Proceeds will go toward establishing a Musical Autist coffeehouse, complete with stage and lighting, to provide employment and performance opportunities for autistic musicians and artists, as well as assisting Studio 39 in their quest to further improve the facility with increased air conditioning for their theater.

Elected and community leaders who attended the event included Maryland first lady Yumi Hogan, County Executive Steve Schuh, Anne Arundel Community College President Dawn Lindsay and Maryland State Secretary of Disabilities Carol Beatty.

The event featured artists from Anne Arundel County Public Schools Performing and Visual Arts Magnet Program and Studio 39; the autism community and the Musical Autist, a nonprofit serving individuals on the autism spectrum; faculty and students from Anne Arundel Community College; performers from area symphony orchestras and professionals Chad Bowles and Todd Bauchspies.

Caption: In The Light performances included a dance routine by Aleise Collier, Rachel Cagle, Alexandra Marston and Aryanna Jennifer.

Anne Arundel Community College professor Helen Smith-Tarchalski performs with Evan Bertrand of the Musical Autist.

Chip Davis, a member of the board at the nonprofit group Musical Autist, was joined at the event by daughter Caroline Davis, a soloist in the program, and Maryland first lady Yumi Hogan.

Andrea Bertrand, left, chairwoman of In The Light, was joined at the event at Maryland Hall by Anne Arundel Community College President Dawn Lindsay, Maryland first lady Yumi Hogan and County Executive Steve Schuh.

courtesy photos