SENSE Theatre^®

SENSE Theatre^®, is a 501(c)(3) non-profit, founded by Blythe Corbett, Ph.D., in January 2009 in Davis, California. Dr. Corbett integrated her background in theatre as a writer and actor with her clinical science research in an effort to blend the disciplines of art and science to create a supportive, enjoyable, community-based treatment program.

The 10-session peer-mediated, theatre-based program includes typically developing peer actors who are trained to work with participants with autism while serving as expert models of social interaction, emotional expression, and imitation. The theatre is home to imagination and communication – thus, it provides a natural environment for enhancing many areas of functioning that are challenging for children with autism.

Autism and Theatre

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by core impairment in social competence (APA, 2013). Engaging in theatrical exercises and acting is an inherently interactive process involving many aspects of social competence, such as observation, perception, interpretation, and expression. Thus, it provides a natural environment for enhancing many areas of functioning that are challenging for individuals on the autism spectrum.

Partnerships

ACM Lifting Lives® is the philanthropic partner of the Academy of Country Music dedicated to improving lives through the power of music. We harness the strength of the Country Music community to provide aid in times of need, with a focus on health-related initiatives. With generous donations and the support of artists and fans, ACM Lifting Lives has funded national music therapy programs serving various mental and physical health organizations. Recipients include patients at children’s hospitals and other healthcare facilities, recovering veterans, people with Williams syndrome, Autism spectrum disorder and individuals with mental illness. For more information, please visit www.ACMLiftingLives.org.