The sensory games of my Hunter Heartbeat Method primarily live in theatrical productions, that can be performed anywhere.
"What is breathtaking about this method is the actors immediately adapt what they are doing to incorporate my autistic son's behaviour into the performance. In other words, they enter into his world, rather than demanding that he enter theirs".
- Francesca Harden
For full knowledge of how to play these sensory games, the revised edition of Shakespeare's Heartbeat is available to buy now.
Bring Shakespeare’s Heartbeat to life
After 22 years of acting and teaching, I don’t say this lightly: this method is essential. Having worked with Kelly Hunter and trained under Kevin McClatchy in the Hunter Heartbeat method at OSU for the past 3.5 years has shown me that this work is less about "performance" and more about the fundamental art of being human. As a neurodivergent individual who happens to teach, breathe, and eat theatre, I do not say this lightly - it is the most impactful work I have had the pleasure of being a part of. Whether you're in a classroom or a community space, this book is a must-read for anyone who believes in the transformative power of Shakespeare, play, and movement. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Chris Quiroz
Oral History Documentary.
Since 2011, Film maker Charlie Usher has been creating these Oral History films, documenting the Hunter Heartbeat Method with the voices of those most closely involved.
Shakespeare and the brain.
In 2016, I gave a talk about the Hunter Heartbeat Method at St Edmund Hall, University of Oxford.
Working with UCL
The Hunter Heartbeat games are all short, fun to play and crucially they are repeatable. It is within this essential repetition that the people with autism who are taking part can form the habit of playing; their anxiety may begin to be alleviated and they may start to explore their communicative playfulness. This built in repetition creates a perfect opportunity for scientific experimentation, allowing neuroscientists to ask what may be happening in the brain when we are communicating? In Spring 2019, we collaborated on Deconstructing the Dream.
In 2024 I was awarded an honorary degree from the University of Birmingham for services to theatre.
"Flute Theatre jangles the bells for the little fish, to create a theatre space that alleviates fear and replaces it with love. We will never be free until the people of Palestine are free."