A Co Monaghan father is using his passion for the arts to change societal norms when it comes to how people perceive autism.
Matthew McMahon wrote and stars in the play 'The Flowers of May' which is inspired by the real-life experiences of both himself and fellow performer Eileen Gomez as parents of children with autism.
Matthew says what unfolds on stage is not fiction drawn from imagination alone, but a story shaped by lived experience.
The challenges, the misunderstandings, the small victories, and the extraordinary love that defines family life.
The local actor told Northern Sound of the pride he feels when audience members who have no experience with autism approach him to say how their whole perspective has changed.
Matthew says these people would have previously judged an autistic child for having a meltdown, but since seeing his play they now approach the situation with more kindness and empathy which makes the whole experience a "worthwhile endeavour" for him and "educational" in a way for others.
Matthew alongside his co-star Eileen will take take to the stage of the Ramor Arts Centre in Virginia at 8pm tonight.
Speaking to Northern Sound, Matthew highlighted the "power of art" adding that the reason he created this play was to let other parents know that they are "not alone."
He explained: "This story belongs to so many families. We wanted to create something truthful, something that says - you’re not alone. The response throughout the tour showed us how much that honesty matters. Families have felt seen, that's what we hoped for."
