“CURIOSITY DIDN'T KILL THE CAT, 
BUT DID IT KILL THE DOG?” 

This is an extract from my Summer Half-Term 2015 'SEN Update' 
that was released on 5 June 2015.

(Don't forget that to ensure you never miss out on one you can get my updates by email by completing your details or by using our Social Media links below)

Talking about Autism…

I recently had the opportunity to go to the theatre to see a play that I have been meaning to go and see for a couple of years: The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, which is currently showing at the Gielgud Theatre in London’s West End.  It has been described as ‘a phenomenal combination of storytelling and spectacle’ (The Times) and ‘a beautiful, dazzlingly inventive show about the wonders of life’ (Evening Standard).  

Although it does not mention the word ‘autism’ at any point, it is centred on the experiences of a 15-year old boy called ‘Christopher’, who is clearly on the autistic spectrum. I was pleasantly surprised and taken aback by how accurate a portrayal of the difficulties that children and young people with his condition and their families can experience.  I recommend it highly to you and would also point out that the National Theatre (who are staging it) also put on pre-show workshops or Q&A sessions for students, which are designed to give students a clearer understanding of individuals with these needs and to appreciate their difficulties better. It may be a real eye-opener.

It was also amusing for me as, when I turned up in my wheelchair, as pre-arranged I was then shown to my seat by an usher at the theatre, who said that she had heard that I was a lawyer who represented children with SEN, which took me a bit by surprise. Also, afterwards, whilst waiting behind the theatre for my cab to take me home, I found myself by the stage door and then meeting and chatting to the lead actor who played ‘Christopher’ so was able to congratulate him personally on his performance, for which he said he was helped greatly with by some of the schools for autistic pupils that I sometimes deal with.

It is not often that you are able to mix business with pleasure!

---

With best wishes

Douglas

P.S.      I always find it helpful to find out what people think about my updates, so please take a few seconds to tell me what you think by going to our ‘Website Survey' - there are just 5 quick questions.

Back to top