Theater My Way Workshops

Theater My Way Workshops are designed to make the performing arts accessible, welcoming, and joyful for young people with disabilities. Each workshop brings together professional teaching artists and special‑needs educators to create an inclusive day of theatrical exploration where every participant can learn, express themselves, and shine in their own way. With support from one‑on‑one peer mentors, students engage in acting, movement, and music through adaptive instruction tailored to their communication styles, sensory needs, and learning preferences.  Each workshop concludes with a short performance for families and friends.

AFA is excited to announce 8 Theater My Way Workshops for the 2026-27 School Year.  These workshops are made possible through grants from the Tennessee Arts Commission and Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging. Thank you also to the East Tennessee Foundation and Perkins Place for partnering with us to host our workshops in a beautiful, fully accessible, centrally located space.

This year's workshops will include two age groups of actors with special needs: Tiny Thespians (ages 5–10): 9:00–10:30 AM and Rising Stars (ages 11–22): 11:15 AM–1:30 PM.  All workshops will be held in the gymnasium space at Perkins Place located at 525 Portland Street in Knoxville.  Workshop dates are Sept 26, Oct 31,  Nov 14, 2026 and Jan 23, Feb 13, Apr 17, May 15, & Jul 17, 2027.

This year’s Theater My Way Workshops will feature two age groups of actors with special needs: Tiny Thespians (ages 5–10) and Rising Stars (ages 11–22). Please be sure to register your artist for the correct age group using the links provided. Actors must register for each workshop individually, and space is limited, so apply early! In order to ensure a positive experience for all participants, neurodiverse actors must not have a history of disruptive or dangerous behaviors, including elopement. There is a non‑refundable $30 registration fee per workshop, with limited scholarships available for foster families caring for a child with special needs.