From September to November 2019, we took our sensory theatre production, Sail Away, on an outreach tour to special schools across the Western Cape. Designed for individuals living with autism and other neurological differences, the production offered a gentle, interactive theatre experience tailored to each audience.

Over three months, we presented 66 shows at schools including Vera School, SNAP, Boland School of Autism, Alta du Toit School, Alpha School, and The Dream Tree School, among others. At each stop, we set up our full immersive space, creating a world where sailors could “sail away” in search of a special golden pearl.

Our aim was to bring theatre to children who might not otherwise have the opportunity to experience it. What we saw was engagement, connection, and exploration — each learner discovering the journey in their own way. The sensory nature of Sail Away invited them to see, touch, listen, and move through the story, creating moments of genuine curiosity and joy.

Teachers and facilitators shared how meaningful it was to see their students respond so positively to a live performance made just for them.

This outreach reminded us why we do what we do. We believe that everyone deserves access to the arts, and that creative experiences can connect people across all abilities and backgrounds. Through projects like Sail Away, we continue to make theatre an inclusive, welcoming space for all.