Chicago Children's Theatre

A Conversation with Artistic Director Jacqui Russell

Q: What happens at Camp Red Kite?
A: Campers participate in music and movement, theatre and drama games, and arts and crafts that encourage self-expression, social engagement and creative exploration. Above all, we want campers to have fun! The camp is led by a team of artists, administrators and special needs teachers dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming and comfortable environment for children with autism who enjoy making art. The entire curriculum is really created so the kids will have a sense of success, and will be able to express themselves creatively, but in an environment that supports and understands their needs as children on the autism spectrum.

Q: In what way is theatre particularly useful in working with children with autism?
A: The major tools we use in drama are your body, mind and voice, and these are three areas that can be especially challenging for children with autism. So we do all kinds of games and exercises to get at communication and shared experiences using our body, mind and voice. Because theatre is such an interactive art form, I think it's particularly suited to challenge, but ultimately enhance, the lives of children with autism. The use of theatre games and repetition in a fun, supportive and engaging environment can often lead to greater interaction.

Q: What sparked your interest in working with children with autism?
A: I began teaching drama to children on the autism spectrum over 12 years ago through CAPE (Chicago Arts Partners in Education), when I was education director with Lookingglass Theatre Company. Kids with autism are some of the most interesting people I've ever met. Communication is a puzzle at times, but they often surprise you with the most amazing ideas and responses to things. They have a very unique perspective and I enjoy them as children and as people.

Q: Tell me about the genesis of Camp Red Kite.
A: When we first founded Chicago Children's Theatre, The British Consulate was kind enough to work to introduce us to children's theatres in the U.K., and the one I was most interested in was Oily Cart. They have been doing theatre for very young children and children with profound disabilities for over 25 years. I went to their summer school to learn how they create their art. I thought their work would be good for children on the spectrum, and invited them to come to the U.S. to work with us. Together, we developed Red Kite/Blue Moon, an interactive, multi-sensory performance installation, created especially for children with autism and their families. That was the birth of the Red Kite Project. Though the Red Kite program began three years ago, this is the first summer for Camp Red Kite.

Q: What kind of feedback have you received from families?
A: I have received tremendous feedback from teachers and families. There are a number of families who have doctors and therapists that recommend they put their child in some type of drama class. It is becoming more known throughout the autism community that drama can aid in better communications. Parents are frequently asking for programming outside the school setting. Thanks to grants from the Pritzker-Pucker Family Foundation and the Helen V. Brach Foundation, we are continually working to find ways where we can offer this work to more children. The camp is a great introduction for so many families and children to see how the arts can enhance the lives of young people on the autism spectrum. Through a workshop funded by the Polk Bros. Foundation, we also help CPS teachers learn how to use drama as a tool in the classroom. The need is growing greatly.