“It doesn’t matter who you are, we’re all the same”

Archie has grown up through SNAP. For the past 15 years, he has transitioned through our services, after school clubs and also fundraised for us along the way. Turning 18 years old in January, Archie is looking to the future as he continues to build on the life skills SNAP has helped him develop, especially through SNAP Drama Club.

Growing up, Archie loved the Multi-Sensory Room, a place where he could regulate and calm himself. The lights and reactive equipment would stimulate and soothe him. He also loved the DVDs in our Specialist Library. He would swap over different films and shows every time he visited. He loves films and his knowledge is off the charts! Mention a film title and he can list the actors, what character they play, the storyline and the directors.

With his love of film, Archie loves voice impressions, his favourite being Mickey Mouse. He’s always loved Mickey – watching Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and going to Disney Parks over the years with his family. He was a little late in talking but once he started, he would speak with an American accent and still does sometimes, thanks to Mickey! He has an incredible talent and passion for voice impressions and would love to get into voice acting once he leaves school.

Archie joined SNAP’s CEO, Karen, and Family Support Adviser, Alli, at our local radio station, Phoenix FM, back in May. Karen is joining Jo Bailey for monthly slots on her Drive Show to raise awareness of SNAP and what we’re up to.

Karen shared, “This was such a fantastic opportunity for Archie! He was able to use the professional mics and see the studio set-up. He loved doing his impressions across the airwaves and chatted about his performance of Baron Bomburst in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang in his school production.” Listen to his interview here.

 

Centre Stage

SNAP’s Drama Club is the perfect stage for Archie to express himself and be free to do his impressions and act.

Archie shares, “SNAP helps with my Autism and making new friends. It’s a place you can come and be free and just enjoy yourself.”

“Everyone at SNAP is always so welcoming and kind. There’s no judgement. It doesn’t matter who you are, we’re all the same.”

“Drama has helped boost my confidence and my favourite things are ‘10 games in 1’ (quick fire call and response games) and doing it with my good pal, Alli. I’ve gained perseverance. I have lots of fun, see all my friends and do my impressions!”

“SNAP in one word… AMAZING!”

These sessions are filled with lots of drama games and activities to help build friendships amongst the group as well as social and communication skills. It’s also helped our young people build self-esteem, boldness and courage.

Family Support Adviser, Alli, leads our younger and older drama clubs. He shares, “Archie is such a fantastic role model as he is now one of the older members at Drama. The younger ones are able to see him giving it his all, which inspires them to have a go themselves.”

“Drama allows everyone to have a platform to express themselves unapologetically. A space for respect and be the young adults that they are in a safe environment.”

“A lot of our members don’t have a place where they can practice social skills, and Drama allows a space for that. They don’t have to join in with all activities, but we do ask that everyone stays engaged in the room with what’s going on. Drama has given many members the confidence to find their voice, however that presents, and good friendships have been formed, which has been beautiful to witness.”

Break a leg

In the Autumn Term, the two groups prepare for a Christmas Showcase. It is an extremely heartwarming display and the perfect way to round off the year, reflecting on the growth and talent of the members.

Last Christmas, we collaborated with The Brentwood Theatre in celebration of 30 years of our services. SNAP’s Junior and Parent Choirs also joined, and we will be repeating this Christmas!

Alli continues, “I create the scripts, and we adapt throughout rehearsing while the groups are getting used to it. Sometimes members just want to participate in the games and not the performance side. On the lead up to the showcase, members can participate in directing or backstage with props and costume.

Archie shares, “I loved the showcase, I enjoyed it a lot. I played the Mad Hatter in a small scene from Alice in Wonderland. I believe I did very good.”