When most people think of theater, they only picture dazzling lights, elaborate costumes, and standing ovations for the artists. But for Dr. Mariela Vargas-Irwin, Executive Director of Applied Behavioral Learning Services (ABLS), the stage represents something far deeper: a powerful tool for mental health wellness.
After the success of their first theatrical production within ABLS, 'Tacos In The Jungle,' the organization launched ABLS Theatrical in November 2024. It is a nonprofit arm: a community theater company with a unique mission in Boston: to use the performing arts as a natural and engaging way to help neurodivergent individuals develop essential life skills. Under the leadership of CEO Natalia Vargas Medina, ABLS Theatrical is preparing for its first production, 'Dorothy in the Jungle,' which is set to debut soon at Wellesley High School.
But beyond the spectacle, the real story is how theater serves as an organic training ground for mental health growth. Theater itself demands structure, discipline, and teamwork—all the skills that many neurodivergent people usually struggle with. According to Dr. Vargas, while the entertainment industry has long been home to neurodivergent performers, behavioral challenges often stand in the way of success. "We have a lot of talent in the neurodivergent community. But what often gets in the way isn't ability. It's behavior: being able to follow instructions, perform on cue, wear costumes, and manage anxiety are all challenges. The process of rehearsing and putting on a production provides a natural, engaging way to practice these skills," she explains.
Theater also provides an opportunity for public speaking, anxiety management, and social development. In all of this, repetition becomes the key, whether in memorizing lines, practicing choreography, or learning how to interact with castmates. "Repetition builds fluency," Dr. Vargas says. "When a performer has gone through their lines many, many times, they can deliver them even if they're nervous."
For most of them, team building within the sports setting is extremely difficult, given the web of nonverbal communication and split-second decision-making that sports require. On the other hand, theater, with consistent rehearsals, offers teamwork in a structured and predictable environment. Dr. Vargas points out, "That predictability allows performers to practice working together in a way that feels safe and achievable."
Various studies show that physical activity can play an important role in behavioral regulation, particularly for individuals with autism and ADHD. ABLS Theatrical understands this and has strategically run its productions in the winter months when outdoor play is limited, offering an alternative outlet for energy and movement. Dr. Vargas says, "Exercise is key to mood regulation and concentration. And in the winter, kids—especially neurodivergent kids—need an outlet for their energy. Singing, dancing, and performing give them that opportunity while also reinforcing executive functioning and social skills."
She also highlights the sensory challenges that winter can bring. "For neurodivergent individuals, just getting dressed for winter with layers, the feel of certain fabrics, or the unpredictability of the snow, can be overwhelming. Theater provides an environment where movement is structured, fun, and beneficial without those added challenges."
The upcoming production, Dorothy in the Jungle, is a carefully crafted behavioral learning experience. The storyline is built around the actors themselves, ensuring that each character plays to their strengths and highlights their unique talents. Annie will be played by Nicole Castilla Villamil, a junior at Berklee College of Music in Boston.
A creative fusion of Annie and The Wizard of Oz, the play follows a young dragon named Annie, an introvert living among energetic, party-loving dragons. Frustrated by their constant noise and lack of boundaries, she escapes to Fairyland, only to find that it isn't the paradise she expected. The play explores themes of introversion vs. extroversion, the importance of boundaries, and the realization that "there's no place like home."
"The story structure is designed to teach key behavioral concepts inherently. It helps individuals understand the balance between social interaction and personal space and how to navigate social dynamics," explains Dr. Vargas.
The production will be an interactive, sing-and-dance-along experience designed with neurodivergent audiences in mind. ABLS Theatrical is even creating an "order of performance" to help attendees—many of whom may struggle with uncertainty—know what to expect at each stage of the performance.
One of the most unique aspects of ABLS Theatrical is its emphasis on community involvement. ABLS itself is in the process of relocating to a house within walking distance of Wellesley High School and Wellesley Middle School, allowing for greater accessibility for student volunteers.
As a nonprofit, ABLS Theatrical offers an opportunity for high schoolers to fulfill their community service hours while learning valuable skills. Dr. Vargas foresees it as: "It's mutually beneficial. High schoolers bring their passion for theater, singing, and dancing while also learning patience, communication, and leadership from working with neurodivergent students. And the students themselves love to interact with high-schoolers who are closer to their age."
The organization is also backed by an impressive team of volunteers. "This isn't just a fun after-school program—it's a theater company designed to uplift and empower our performers," Dr. Vargas emphasizes. To add to this, Aura Sehdev, the Chief Creative Officer, is in charge of the choreography, Alexa Courey is the Chief Financial Officer, who takes care of the accounting and donations, and Aiden Cheng is a board member.
At a time when creative expression is under threat, ABLS Theatrical is a testament to the importance of storytelling and self-expression. "The world doesn't always make space for those who think or communicate differently," Dr. Vargas reflects. "But theater does. It allows people to find their voice, step into new roles, and connect with others in a way that feels safe and empowering."
With its debut just around the corner, ABLS Theatrical isn't just putting on a play—it is building a beautiful movement. One where neurodivergent individuals can shine, communities can come together, and storytelling becomes a tool for personal and collective transformation.
