How Basic Storytelling Elements Transcend Cultures - Tricia Regan

In Chapter 3 of 17 in her 2009 Capture Your Flag interview, filmmaker Tricia Regan shares storytelling fundamentals she has learned in her work. She finds it fundamental to reduce a story to basic elements where people, regardless of culture, can relate. Sadness, fear, frustration, safety, progress, and love represent some basic elements present in all cultures. Regan frames her recent film "AUTISM: THE MUSICAL" as kids trying to put on a play faced with overcoming an obstacle, in this case autism. By reducing autism to an everyday obstacle, Regan uses the play production to forge a connection with her audience and build their stake with the movie characters.