Free autism workshops and facilitator training

Shakespeare and Autism Project unlocks communication through sensory games
Older children and young adults on the autism spectrum can experience the transformative power of the arts at a Shakespeare and Autism Project workshop. This enriching workshop is designed to create opportunities to explore communication and social skills as well as storytelling and self-expression.

All workshops are free, geared toward participants aged 8-22, and open to members of the autism community. Space is limited to 14 participants and registration is required.

The Shakespeare and Autism Project was created through a groundbreaking, internationally recognized blend of civic engagement, curricular training and research.

Hosted by The Ohio State University and utilizing the innovative Hunter Heartbeat Method, these creative workshops use the rhythm of Shakespeare's iambic pentameter to create a structured yet flexible environment for participants to improve their communication skills. Emphasizing skills such as eye contact, spatial awareness, recognition of facial expressions and emotional understanding, the Hunter Heartbeat Method's use of Shakespeare's rhythm creates a calming, predictable and enjoyable environment, helping participants build social and communication skills in a play-based, and supportive setting.

Register for Shakespeare and Autism Project Facilitator Training
Additionally, members of the public age 18 or older are invited to attend a free teaching artist training session to learn how to become a Shakespeare and
Autism Project facilitator. Registration is required.

All training and workshops will be led by Kevin McClatchy, an associate professor in the Department of Theatre, Film, and Media Arts and Ohio State's 2024-25 Artist Laureate.

Through a 2012-2015 longitudinal study in Columbus-area schools led by Ohio State faculty and Ohio State's Nisonger Center researchers, statistically significant improvements were observed in communicative and social skills among the Shakespeare and Autism Project workshop participants, validating the effectiveness of the project's use of the Hunter Heartbeat Method as an intervention. Read more about the Shakespeare and Autism Project and the Hunter Heartbeat Method on the Department of Theatre, Film, and Media Arts website.

To register or for more information, contact Kevin McClatchy at [email protected].

Training and Workshop Schedule
The Ohio State University at Marion,
1465 Mt. Vernon Avenue, Marion, OH
Alber Student Center - Greg Swepston Gymnasium
Monday, Nov. 4: Teaching artist training, 4-8:30 p.m.
Wednesday, Nov. 6: Workshop with children, 6:30-8 p.m.

Artist Laureate activities are funded by Ohio State's Office of Academic Affairs. In its second year, the Artist Laureate program is designed to help the university expand its impact across Ohio through external engagement.