ALL WITHOUT WORDS
An autistic child's hidden melody changes his family forever
ALL WITHOUT WORDS chronicles the journey of composer Justin Morell as he discovers a symphony through the vocalizations of his nonverbal autistic son, Loren. This heartfelt documentary explores the autistic experience and how the Morell family found new meaning on its journey to support Loren and show the disconnected outside world that he has a lot to offer. Seen through the lens of a multi-generational musical family, the Morrell’s story is about accepting, adapting, and ultimately realizing their legacy.
ALL WITHOUT WORDS LIVE is a visually stunning full-length live multidisciplinary film that creates a visceral experience around autistic lifestyle themes, introspection, and parental challenges. Loren Morell's vocalizations and the composition he inspired are brought to life by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra, multi-Grammy-winning trumpet soloist John Daversa, dancers, a word-less choir, projection mapping, and a captivating creative set design. The experience evokes wonder and powerful thoughts of how autistic persons, their families, and those who love them experience the world.
“What began as a mission to celebrate neurodiversity became an opportunity for me to connect with my son and hear his voice in a way I had not before.”
- Justin Morell, composer of All Without Words
JUSTIN MORELL
Composer
JUSTIN MORELL is a composer, guitarist, and music educator whose work crosses genres between classical and jazz styles. He is an associate professor of music composition and theory at Lebanon Valley College in Pennsylvania. Justin’s multimedia work includes notable contributions to Steven Spielberg’s Catch Me if You Can, Lifetime Original Movies, TV sitcom The Naked Truth, and The Lion King — San Francisco production.
Trumpet Soloist
JOHN DAVERSA
JOHN DAVERSA is a multi-Grammy Award winning, Emmy-nominated trumpet player, composer, arranger, producer, bandleader, and educator. He is world-renowned for his dynamic and emotive style along with imaginative, genre-bending compositions and arrangements. Daversa is Chair of Studio Music and Jazz at Frost School of Music, University of Miami. . John Daversa and Justin Morrell have been close friends and musical soulmates since childhood.
LOREN MORELL
Inspiration
LOREN MORELL, Justin and Jennifer’s only child, was diagnosed with nonverbal autism at a young age. Though he initially had limited speech, he lost this ability by age four. His father, Justin Morell, recorded Loren’s vocalizations and discovered a hidden melody, which became Loren’s Theme. He then composed eleven variations, each reflecting the family’s experience and forming the foundation of the All Without Words project.
JENNIFER TAGGART
Mother
JENNIFER TAGGART, Loren's mother, has dedicated her life to his care and well-being. She and her husband have tirelessly sought ways to enhance his communication and connections. All Without Words marks a major breakthrough, bringing new hope to their family. When Jennifer first heard the variations, she instantly recognized Loren’s “voice,” saying with pride, “That was him...that really is Loren.”
COMMUNITY & FEEDBACK
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The Butterfly Journal
Inspired by a “talk-back” session (post-show public feedback) immediately after the recording of the All without Words Live experience - The Butterfly Journal is a newsletter aimed at servicing a community in search of resources, shared experiences, new perspectives, leaders & inspirations from those on the Autism Spectrum. Sign up now!
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Audience Reactions
A collection of comments made by attendees of the live performance, community leaders, media personalities, educators, caregivers and others sharing their conclusions and take aways from the All Without Words Live experience. The feedback serves as insight on the content, and it identifies various emotions consumers felt after the experience.
THE ALL WITHOUT WORDS PROJECT
Educational Curriculum
