NEWS MEDIA ADVISORY
Contact: Mark Schmidt (TAP)
Phone: 217-588-
Cell: 217-306-
E-Mail: mschmidt@
CHICAGO – The Autism Program of Illinois (TAP) will partner with HBO on the Chicago premiere of the new HBO Films’ production, “Temple Grandin”, which brings to the screen the story of the best-selling author, animal scientist and autism advocate.
The premiere will be held on Wednesday, January 27, 2010 at the Gene Siskel Film Center of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, 164 North State Street, Chicago. The invitation-only event, which is being specially targeted to the autism community in Illinois, will begin with a reception for Temple Grandin at 6:00 p.m., followed by a screening of the film at 7:00 p.m. Following the film, a panel comprised of persons with autism, family members, noted researchers and a media representative will discuss the film. Journalists wishing to cover the event are encouraged to pre-register with Ambar Mentor (amentor@valeriedenney.com)
Starring Golden Globe winner Claire Danes in the title role, “Temple Grandin” paints a picture of a young woman’s perseverance and determination while struggling with the isolating challenges of autism at a time when the disorder was quite unknown.
The film chronicles Dr. Grandin’s early diagnosis, her turbulent growth and development during her school years, and the enduring support she received from her mother, her aunt, and her science teacher. Undaunted by educational, social and professional roadblocks, she emerges as a woman with an innate sensitivity and understanding of animal behavior who revolutionized the cattle industry and because an inspiration to persons with autism everywhere.
“We are pleased to have been selected by HBO as its Illinois partner for this important event,” said Georgia Winson, Chief of The Autism Program of Illinois (TAP). “This innovative and visually stunning film literally takes the audience inside the mind of Dr. Grandin, using snapshot images to trace her self-perceptions and her journey through life. This is a historic endeavor which will help promote public understanding of autism spectrum disorders and persons with autism.”
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1 in every 110 school-age children will have an autism spectrum disorder. TAP is the largest statewide autism services network in the nation, with 12 centers across Illinois serving more than 16,000 families each year. In November, TAP was an organizer and sponsor of the national town hall meeting, “Advancing Futures for Adults with Autism”, which linked more than 1,000 participants at 16 locations across American to develop a national agenda related to services for adults with an autism spectrum disorder.
Debuting at 8:00 p.m. ET February 6 on HBO, other showtimes for the film include: February 6 (11:45 p.m.), 7 (5:45 p.m.), 10 (11:30 a.m., 8:00 p.m.), 14 (10:30 a.m., 12:30 a.m.), 18 (9:30 a.m., 4:30 p.m.), 20 (2:00 p.m.), 22 (3:30 p.m., 10:30 p.m.), and 27 (noon). All times are ET/PT.
