Scarlet Masque Theatre Journal New Beginnings and Fond Farewells Vol. 1 | Page 93

classroom environment in terms of inclusivity is a positive step in creating the right kind of
theatrical atmosphere.
Theater
With this knowledge in mind there are several issues to observe when analyzing a
relationship between theater and autism. Even in high functioning (low severity) individuals with
ASD there are are impairments the theater might take for granted. Impairments in social
reciprocity, deficiencies in communication skills, and repetitive/stereotypical/ritualistic
behaviors could lead to many issues. How do theaters go about creating inclusive environments
that elevate the experiences of the autism community? In addition, technical choices (i.e. light or
sound) could have a severe effect on performers with ASD.
There are generally two different kinds of organizations that furthers a relationship
between theater and ASD. There are the artistic-minded organizations and the
therapeutic-minded organizations.
Artistic-Minded
Artistic-minded organizations as the name implies have more of a focus on including
those with ASD in the theater community as equal artists. They may include therapeutic devices,
but their main selling point is to make art with and/or for the ASD community. Of course there
are varying degrees of focus between each organization in this subset. These are organizations
providing equal opportunities for theatrical performance.
I.
P94M: The S.P.E.C.T.R.U.M. School (New York City, NY)
Though it is a school for special needs students, P94M takes special care to
emphasize itself as a performing arts school for those with ASD. In many ways the
language of the school is similar to many other performing arts schools. In practice,
however, the school offers a small student to faculty ratio enabling more one-on-one
attention. In addition, the school works with students to perform and even create original
musical works.
II.
The Prism Project (Ball State University)
The Prism Project is a multi-month long program that offers a space for students
to engage in the performing arts. They have buddies who pair up with them throughout a
session to guide and assist. Most participants are mid functioning on the spectrum. They
have three levels to assist their staff in determining who needs more attention and
guidance than others. They conclude their rehearsal process with two performances open
to the public. It serves as a training ground for theater education students as well as a
space for youth with ASD to find their artistic “voice.”
Therapeutic-Minded
Conversely, therapeutic-minded organizations are more interested in how theater can
affect the specific deficiencies and impairments of ASD. They are more instructional or research
driven than the artistic-minded organizations. There are substantially more therapeutic-minded
organizations than artistic-minded.
I.
SENSE Program (Vanderbilt University)