From the creative hub of Flute Theatre in London, this adaptation of Shakespeare’s Pericles utilizes The Hunter Heartbeat Method – a unique style of storytelling geared towards audiences with all types of cognitive disabilities. Through a series of engaging sensory drama games, the audience will be transported into Shakespeare’s classic tale of adventure, loss, and redemption in this groundbreaking production, which aims to bring the gift of theatre to those who may not have ever experienced its transformational power.
Have a cognitive disability? Sign up to participate in the drama games or watch from the outside. No prior knowledge of Shakespeare is necessary! All ages are welcome.
FAQ
- What is a cognitive disability?
- Cognitive disability encompasses a range of conditions such as intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorder, and developmental disability. While the Hunter Heartbeat Method was originated by and for autistic individuals, we encourage individuals of all cognitive disability backgrounds to join us in this individually adaptable show.
- What is the Hunter Heartbeat Method?
- The Hunter Heartbeat Method is a Shakespearean based theater intervention developed by Kelly Hunter of the Royal Shakespeare Company and Flute Theatre. The Hunter Heartbeat method is based around the rhythm of iambic pentameter, the sound of the heartbeat, and Shakespeare’s interpretation of what it feels like to be alive. Sensory-based games revolving around the plot of Shakespeare’s work target skills such as eye contact, facial emotion recognition and production, turn taking, imitation, and communication in a fun and playful manner. Participants learn the games while seated in a large group circle through imitation and observation rather than explicit instruction, have an opportunity to play the games one-on-one with an actor, and then have an opportunity to enter the middle of the circle and show their interpretation of the game to their peers. The Hunter Heartbeat method emphasizes the low actor to participant ratio so participants receive individual attention, feedback, and interaction as they play the games and grow and develop core social skills and communication.
- Can my non-verbal family member participate?
- Absolutely! The Hunter Heartbeat method focuses on “conversations of the body” or how to feel and acknowledge emotions in the body. Spoken language is far from required, and we encourage everyone to join us!
- How do I make sure my or my family member’s accessibility needs are met?
- Our community engagement manager, Grace Tate, will be reaching out to all participants and audience members to share information on the show as well as obtain information on your accessibility needs. If you have questions before purchasing tickets, reach out to Grace at grace@phamaly.org.
- Do participants have to attend every show?
- No, participants are not required to attend every show. We welcome you to join us for more than one performance, but it is not required.
- Are there required rehearsals?
- No, there are no required rehearsals before performances. As the show is interactive and comprised of sensory games, there is no rehearsal or line memorization required!
- What information will be provided beforehand?
- Before the performance, a guide including detailed instructions for arrival at the venue and timeline of the performance will be provided. We refer to this as a social story, and it will include pictures!
- What should I wear as a participant?
- Wear clothing you feel comfortable moving in! No costumes required.