Autism & Theatre
Austim and Theatre: An Industry Inspiration day for theatre staff and autism experts was held on 10 October 2011 at the Unicorn Theatre, London.
The event aimed to achieve long-lasting cultural change and build on the exceptional access work that already exists within the UK theatre industry. It will also serve as a launch pad for similar regional venue awareness days and establish future ongoing engagement between local theatres and families affected by autism.
Over 200 delegates from across the industry attendedthe Inspiration Day which provided an opportunity to openly discuss the subject of autism in forum and break out sessions, identify the challenges facing families, theatres and performers, learn about best practice for the future and hear from inspirational guest speakers who have personal experience with these issues.
The event was chaired by Jodi Myers and Jonathan Meth. Guest speakers included ATG’s Joint Chief Executive, Rosemary Squire OBE, children’s playwright, producer and Chair of Action for Children's Arts, David Wood OBE and CEO of the National Autistic Society, Mark Lever.
The event was a partnership between the Ambassador Theatre Group Ltd (ATG), the Unicorn Theatre , National Autistic Society (NAS) , Action for Children’s Arts (ACA) , Theatrical Management Association (TMA) and the Society of London Theatre (SOLT) . Further partners involved in supporting the day included Ambitious About Autism and the Institute of Entertainment and Arts Management (IEAM).
