A Magical Disney Show for children with autism

SM Cares invited 60 children with autism and their parents, all active ASP chapter members, to the “Disney Live! Mickey’s Magic Show” on 04 October 2013 at the Mall of Asia Arena. This captivating show, with an innovative blend of characters and illusions, brought together in one venue the favorite Disney characters such and world-class illusionist, Michael Barron. One of the highlights in the show are Cinderella’s rag dress turning into a beautiful gown in seconds, Princess Jasmine elevating up into the air, different illusions done by Master Magician Mickey Mouse, and the cannon and disappearing act done by Barron. Barron also invited children to volunteer in stage to make them feel and see the illusions for themselves. Other Disney characters in the show includes Donald Duck, Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Snow White, Alice in Wonderland and the Mad Hatter, and Princess Belle.

Disney Magical Poster

True to its commitment to be one of the country’s leading corporate social responsibility (CSR) advocates, SM’s initiative to provide genuine care and assistance to customers with special needs such as the differently abled and special children is just so overwhelming that they even go beyond their goal of total customer satisfaction.

By inviting ASP members for a free admission to the show, SM did not only provide an opportunity to special needs family for quality family bonding time; but they also allowed the general public to experience children with autism and their characteristics. Some people seemed to notice how our children behave and even wondered where in the archipelago the jargon these children are speaking originated from.

Thanks to SM Cares, the participants and parents had a very overwhelming experience in the show.

Chie Marquez, the President of ASP Bacoor Chapter, shared: “My son Moti excitedly showed me his calendar pointing to the number 4 (which he marked with “ MOA Arena”) and told me “sleep then MOA”. We were lucky to be a part of limited ASP members who were given complimentary tickets by SM to watch Disney Live Mickey’s Magic Show at the MOA Arena. SM is so generous that the tickets it gave away to ASP members are lower box tickets! SM make us feel big time in a way :D”

Henry Aquino and his son, Hannz made this event as an opportunity to bond as father and son. Henry is thankful to ASP and SM Cares for inviting them to the wonderful show. His son was very happy and so excited to watch it. He even stood up and went down to see the Disney characters and magicians up close. Henry felt it was the happiest thing he has done with his son, since he has been too busy at work.

Elizabeth Udquin of ASP UP-Camp Chapter and ASP National Board Trustee said that for a family like hers, it was impossible for them to watch Disney live shows due to the cost of tickets. She also noted that many of the chapters invited were from marginalized families; but transportation fees became far from their mind, as long as their children can witness the Disney magic. When she learned about the offer of SM Cares, she immediately listed her kids and cancelled all her commitments for that day. During the show, her son Cholo kept on shouting “Abracadabra” and kept nagging his mom that he wants to volunteer on the stage. “On behalf of ASP UP-Camp Chapter, we would like to express our gratitude to SM Cares for giving us a chance to witness the show and be a part of it,” she said.

For Jean Gonzales of Mandaluyong Chapter, it was indeed a tremendous experience! They are grateful to ASP and SM for giving them a chance to watch a show like this.

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