Autism-friendly theatre
Going to the theatre can be challenging for people on the autism spectrum. Busy areas, unexpected sounds, lights and, of course, huge applause. Sensory overload!
Add to this the ‘conventional’ idea of ‘sitting still and quiet’ means traditional theatre trips can often be ruled out.
Research shows that theatre helps children on the spectrum with their social-emotional development.
Head2Head Sensory Theatre has opened the doors to theatre for many young autistic children who find ‘theatre’ a real challenge.
Championing multi-sensory theatre since 2006
Based in Oxted, Surrey, Head2Head Sensory Theatre creates imaginative ways to make theatre and film accessible and inclusive for everyone, including children and young people on the spectrum.
Supported by a professional team of actors trained in Makaton signing, Head2Head tours UK communities with a variety of immersive multi-sensory experiences for families and schools with special educational needs and disabilities.
These include engaging live shows, pantomimes, storytelling, crafts, videos and immersive experiences, as well as fun educational workshops.
What makes Head2Head Sensory Theatre awesome for autism?
There is NO real ‘audience’. No imposing stages, no load clapping, hushing sounds or frowns from others and no big crowds. That is because shows take place in smaller venues, so we are at eye level with everyone.
Anyone can join in! – We refer to our ‘audience’ as ‘participants’. They are allowed to participate in the story and become part of what we do on set.
Professional and passionate Makaton-trained cast – Nothing can faze our actors; they are passionate about what they do (creating magical sensory experiences) and trained in working with children and young adults with multiple disabilities.
Shows are short and fun – No need to worry about their focus of attention for two hours or more. Our shows are shorter, fun and engaging. Most sensory live shows are between 45 minutes and 1 hour.
Chill-out zone – If it does all get too much, we provide a designated breakout space to wind down from all the action until you’re ready to join in again.
Sensory Squad
As well as live shows, Head2Head offers online resources via its YouTube learning channel. This includes a new series – Sensory Squad – a free, fun and educational Makaton signed and captioned YouTube series for children that aims to help children with autism prepare for real-world experiences such as farm, circus or museum visits.
The series enhances communication and offers learning experiences through songs, stories and repetition. With over 85,000 hits in its debut episode, Sensory Squad has opened up a new fun experience that can be safely accessed by children with autism or other sensory issues and who feel otherwise anxious when presented with live sessions.
Pantos, films and games are also accessible via YouTube for families and schools, with supporting materials to enhance the sensory experience. A popular option to access theatre online for those who might need to self-isolate or who can’t travel to a live show.
What’s on
We have a number of live shows and workshops lined up for 2023 that can be booked directly from our website. These include brand-new Money Management Workshops. They’re designed for young people aged 11+ with learning disabilities to help them build the confidence to become more financially independent.
Using drama, games, role play and improvisation, participants will explore ‘real life’ money experiences, from preparing to visit the shops, budgeting, saving for the future, and lots more in a fun and relaxed environment.
Links
For more info, visit www.h2hsensorytheatre.com
YouTube channel 👇
https://www.youtube.com/@h2hsensorytheatre
Follow Head2Head Sensory Theatre:
Contact admin@h2hsensorytheatre.com
Call 01883 725 264
