The Tempest

Shakespeare's beautiful play of love and magic is specially adapted for an audience of children with autism and young people with autism. Six actors take us on a journey of clowns, spirits, monsters, and wizards on an island where nobody feels ordinary. In an intimate and interactive experience, young people are invited to join the actors, playing sensory games to help bring the story to life. Together they explore Shakespeare's final play, using his rhythmic expressive language to create a unique experience for the children.

Kelly Hunter adapts and directs The Tempest, using games inspired by the play that she has created over the last ten years to help combat the challenges of autism. Each performance will feel safe and intimate, with a maximum of 15 children along with their parents, teachers, siblings, and caregivers, all of whom are welcome to share the experience. There will be time before the performance to meet the actors and settle comfortably in the space and time at the end to say goodbye. The play is a relaxed experience, and the young people will be free to take time out of the auditorium at any time. This production will last two hours, and is aimed at those ages 8–25.

For more information, please refer to the frequently asked questions for the Wexner Center or WOSU@COSI performances.

Cosponsored with Ohio State’s Department of Theatre, Royal Shakespeare Company, and Ohio State’s Nisonger Center.

Please note: the July 20 performance and its participants will be videotaped. If you attend this performance, you will need to sign a waiver upon arrival for yourself and any children accompanying you.