We create engaging experiences that help neurodiverse kids build confidence, make friends, and express themselves through the power of theatre.
THE CONCEPT
THE ACTORS
THE FAMILIES
Why theatre?
Autism manifests in diverse forms, yet many on the spectrum find it challenging to navigate social interactions. When these social skills don't develop naturally, early intervention frequently includes teaching children social stories or scripts to help them internalise positive behavioural patterns. What better way to do this, than through theatre where scripts, learning lines, sharing the stage, building confidence and being part of a community are fundamental.
HOW WE TEACH
Every week, the troupe focuses on developing essential life skills through engaging and specially designed classes. For instance, they learn to "Support your Troupe" while navigating a tightrope and discover the value of "Celebrating Mistakes" as they master the art of juggling. We ensure parents and caregivers stay informed, equipping them to help their young actors apply these concepts from the theatrical stage on the grander world stage. We then invite family and friends to join us for a front-row experience, where they can witness the growth and newfound talents of their young actors in an end-of-term showcase.
CLASSES
REGISTRATIONS OPEN FOR TERM 1, 2025
DATES & TIMES
8 x 90min classes on Saturdays during the school term (starting Feb 1st)
9 - 10:30am
11am - 12:30pm
1:30 - 3pm
The exact troupe time for your actor will be confirmed after registration.
FEES
$800 for the term (not due until classes start)
Eligible for NDIS
Fees include all course materials and light refreshments.
Location
247 Station Rd, New Gisborne VIC 3438
Not local to our area? Email us to register your interest in Full Spectrum coming to your area.
NEW ACTORS (age 9-13)
If your actor is new to Full Spectrum Theatre® they can join the Beginner Troupe. In this first term, we foster a supportive troupe dynamic so the actors build confidence and start to form friendships. We put on a CIRCUS with diverse roles so every actor experiences the joy of shining on stage. Please register to receive more information and a call from our team. Have more questions? Check out our FAQs below.
INTERMEDIATE
If your actor has completed the Beginner term, but has not yet completed a full year, they can join an Intermediate Troupe. In Term 1 of 2025 we will be creating our partially improvised show, THE MASK OF HONKAPUPU.
ADVANCED
If your actor has graduated after completing 4 terms, and is back for an encore, they’ll join the Advanced Troupe. Taking turns in front of the cameras, and behind, they learn the craft of film and television, as they develop their communication skills and, of course, their friendships.
THE FOUNDERS
Dr. Jenny Heriot, AU.D.
Hi there! I’m Jenny. With a passion for empowering neurodiverse children, I bring both personal and professional experience to Full Spectrum Theatre. My journey started with a simple theatre game for our son, who is on the spectrum. Watching him experiment with facial expressions to change meaning was an ‘ah-ha’ moment—it was then I knew theatre could be a powerful tool for building social skills. That experience inspired me to co-found Full Spectrum Theatre, a welcoming, trauma-informed space where neurodiverse kids can grow in confidence and connect with others.
I am a certified PEERS® instructor through UCLA, specialising in social skills training for youth with autism and socio-emotional challenges, and am pursuing psychodrama training to deepen my approach. Additionally, I serve as Secretary for the Mount Players Theatre Company and hold a Doctorate in Audiology, specialising in cochlear implantation. My goal is to ensure every actor feels engaged, involved, and integral to their troupe. I look forward to welcoming your young actor into our community.
DREW HERIOT
Hi I’m Drew. I’m a Film and TV director, producer and writer. I’ve produced and directed shows for all the commercial networks in Australia and also directed two feature-length documentaries, THE SECRET (2006) and THE POWER OF THE HEART (2015). While living in Los Angeles, I produced THE ELEVATE FILM AND MUSIC FESTIVAL where the international film community created works of social and global importance in just 48hrs. I grew up in Mount Macedon and after travelling far and wide realised, ‘There’s no place like home.’ I’m passionate about transformation in characters on screen and off - especially in kids at Full Spectrum Theatre as they learn to unleash their gifts.
FAQs
We don’t live NEARBY. is there any way my child can be part of full spectrum theatre?
Yes. We are exploring various options for kids that aren’t local to Melbourne and the Macedon Ranges. Email us and we’ll keep you updated.
My child hasn’t been diagnosed. Can they still participate?
Although Full Spectrum Theatre has been created specifically for children on the spectrum, we might be a good fit for each other. Please email us to discuss your situation.
What if these classes aren’t right for my child?
If your child isn’t thriving at Full Spectrum Theatre, we will offer a refund on the remaining classes. No questions asked.
What if we can’t afford the classes?
We offer one scholarship per term. When filling out your registration form, let us know if cost is an issue so we can consider your actor for this.
my child isn’t 9-13 years old. Can I still register them?
Age doesn’t always reflect a child’s development and readiness for Full Spectrum Theatre. So please reach out to us via email and we’ll arrange a time to chat.
Can I attend with my child?
We want to support your actor’s independence in new settings, but sometimes this needs to be developed gradually. If your actor wants to invite his or her ‘agent’ (Hello, you!) we will require a current Working With Children’s Check.
If my child is overstimulated, what procedures do you have in place?
On our registration form, we ask you to share, ‘What calms your actor down?’ e.g. access to a sensory box, petting their dog, noise-cancelling headphones. We then use this information to tailor our response. If your child is particularly overstimulated during a session, we might request that you, or your child’s support worker, attend the next session.