Acting in a world of difference: Drama, Autism and Gender

I examine how theatre has worked as an enriched environment for enhancing understanding of autism. I make reference to two projects, both funded by the UK Arts and Humanities Research Council: Imagining Autism (2011-14) and Playing A/Part: investigating the experiences of autistic girls through drama, interactive media and participatory arts (2018-2021). By casting new light on autistic identities and experiences, participatory arts have enriched other disciplines. My discussion positions this research in debates between medical and social models of disability, engaging with constructions of difference in the contexts of disability and gender studies.