Trinity Rep Active Imagination Network

Trinity Rep Active Imagination Network (TRAIN) is a series of drama classes specially designed to serve children on the autism spectrum. Founded in January 2010, it has become one of Trinity Rep’s fastest growing education programs. Through acting and improvisation, students learn to socialize, build confidence and express themselves in a healthy, fun way.  The TRAIN has already stopped at a number of organizations around RI, including Pathways Strategic Teaching Center, The Autism Project, Bradley Hospital, and Seven Hills RI.

The marriage of drama and autism therapy is a natural one. Theater classes employ the body, voice, and mind—all of which are obstacles in an autistic child’s development. For non-verbal students, body language work and facial expression games greatly improve communication skills. For higher-functioning children, acting and improvisation provide a safe environment for initiating conversations. For all ASD kids, theater is a way to role-play, be creative, and have fun.

Studies have shown that autism affects one in every 110 children. Theater therapy may be the future in special education and this program is the first of its kind in the region. TRAIN classes give children with autism the tools they need to learn, communicate, and build self-esteem. To find out how you can bring drama into your classroom or sign up for TRAIN classes near you, contact jbutterfield@trinityrep.com. 

Click here for testimonials from TRAIN teachers, students and parents as well as our partner links

Click here to download curriculum ideas for how to incorporate drama into your playroom or classroom

Click here to download TRAIN goals

ABOUT THE TEACHING ARTIST
Jordan Butterfield (Education Programs Manager & Teaching Artist) has been teaching theater to children with Autism Spectrum Disorders for over six years. She served as the drama teacher for Educational Consultants of New England (now Milestones, Inc.) in their summer camp and year-round day school. Jordan came to Trinity Rep as the education intern and stayed on as the Business Assistant and Child Coordinator before returning to the education department in 2010. Since founding TRAIN, Jordan has conducted residencies with Bradley Hospital, The J. Arthur Trudeau Center, The Autism Project and Seven Hills RI. Jordan recently completed the Son-Rise training at the Autism Treatment Center of America and graduated with a theater arts degree from Brandeis University.

TRAIN is made possible by the support of CVS Caremark Charitable Trust



TRAIN logo by Allison Terkowitz