Shakespeare and Autism: Reenvisioning Expression, Communication, and Inclusive Communities

Abstract

The Hunter Heartbeat Method (HHM), created by Kelly Hunter, is a theatrical performance-based program designed for children on the autism spectrum. This chapter will describe the practice and processes involved in the implementation of the method and also discuss the recommended programmatic elements that comprise this innovative technique. The HHM features a series of games that bring the unique characteristics of and interactions between Shakespeare's characters into focus as children on the spectrum portray the characters and tell the story of the selected play. The method transforms the complexities of Shakespeare's plots into a sequence of games that are specifically tailored to address the communicative challenges that accompany autism. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2017 APA, all rights reserved)