Make Sense Theatre

A “truly inclusive and special” theatre group has been nominated for Charity of the Year, sponsored by Cream Design.

Make Sense Theatre was founded by 2021 to address the lack of truly inclusive theatre spaces for neurodivergent, disabled, and sensory-attuned people in the Reading area.

Their nominator has praised its support for children and young people with profound disabilities, creating a welcoming, creative and accepting environment where every participant is valued and encouraged to take part fully, regardless of their needs or abilities.

“They are kind, friendly, supportive, chatty, creative and very accepting and go above and beyond,” said Emily Pearse, who attends the group, “they are the best drama group I have ever been to.”

Families benefitting from Make Sense’s offering have seen the organisation grow into an increasingly important part of the local community.

“My daughter has attended for the last few years, and we have seen it grow into such an inclusive special place for so many children, young people and young adults,” said Ruth, Emily’s mum.

What makes Make Sense Theatre particularly unique, she added, is its commitment to ensuring that everyone has a meaningful role in performances, regardless of the complexity of their disability.

“It is truly open to a wide range of disabilities, and at their shows everyone has a meaningful part,” she said. “It is wonderful.”