115. Using Acting to Support Neurodivergency with Theater of Possibility

<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Neurodivergent students often get pulled out of classrooms and taught separately because they are “different.” Well, we’re all a little bit different. Does that mean we should all be taught in silos? Not a chance.</span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">There’s an inclusive program in the Seattle area that’s supporting our colorful, mismatched students in a unique way that can help them on and off the stage. Youth are learning through theater and improvisation.</span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">This week on the podcast, I’m talking with Lauren Marshall, director of Theater of Possibility, about the organization’s unique take on theater and learning. And joining Lauren is Jackie Moffit, one of the school’s former students and current teachers. </span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Together we explore the role the current education system has had on neurodivergent youth, why pull-out programs might work in some instances (but generally don’t), the problem with special education, and why acting is a valuable tool for students with autism.</span></p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">About Lauren Marshall:</span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Lauren Marshall is the founding director of Theater of Possibility, serving neurodiverse youth, since 2010. A produced and published playwright, she has an MFA in Music Theater writing from NYU, and BA and JD from Stanford.  </span></p> <p> </p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">About Jackie Moffit:</span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Jackie Moffit is an actor, writer, and musician on the autism spectrum who goes by any pronouns. They first started participating in Theater of Possibility in 2012 as a student and became an assistant teacher for the kids’ class several years later. They are passionate about neurodiversity representation in education and the arts, and are excited for thier first session as lead teacher. In addition to his work with Theater of Possibilit