The resource ‘A Handbook for Youth Theatre Facilitators; Supporting Young People on the Autism Spectrum’ was created in 2020 through a partnership project between Youth Theatre Ireland and AsIAm (Ireland’s National Autism Charity), and with the collaboration of Anna Galligan from Kilkenny Youth Theatre.
Written by Hannah O’Dwyer, AsIAm’s Training Manager and Education Officer, the resource aims to equip youth theatre leaders with the information and strategies they need to build their confidence and develop facilitation skills that support the participation of young people on the autistic spectrum. The resource aims to dispel myths and misconceptions about autism and promote understanding and acceptance of autistic young people in youth theatre. The handbook also suggests best practice strategies and features many approaches developed in Kilkenny Youth Theatre by its facilitator, Anna Galligan, and its youth theatre members.
Inclusion lies at the heart of good youth theatre practice. As part of the rich mix of young people that take part in youth theatre every week, youth theatres welcome many autistic young people. During the Centre Stage +20 research project (2019), 18% of youth theatre members described themselves as having a disability. The vast majority of these young people identified as neurodiverse, with a significant group mentioning Autistic Spectrum Condition. Youth theatre leaders need training and information to support the engagement of autistic young people within their work and to develop their inclusive facilitation practice. Youth Theatre Ireland is delighted to share this best practice guide with the sector to help promote a culture of inclusion in youth theatre for all autistic young people.
Many thanks to the Creative Ireland Programme for their generous support of inclusive youth theatre practice and, in particular, for the funding to develop this resource and its accompanying training seminars.
