Hunter Heartbeat: The Tempest

The Lone Tree Arts Center, in partnership with Phamaly Theatre Company, welcomes all ages of our neurodivergent and disability communities for a six-week dynamic exploration of the world-renowned Hunter Heartbeat method. All disabilities are welcome: games are adaptable for participants of any ability, including those who use wheelchairs or other mobility devices, as well as individuals who are nonverbal or use communication devices.

Developed over the course of two decades by international multi-hyphenate theatre artist, Kelly Hunter, the Hunter Heartbeat method is a series of sensory games centering on the human voice and body derived from Shakespeare’s poetic exploration of how it feels to be alive. Each 75-minute session will be led by Phamaly Theatre Company’s Artistic Director, Ben Raanan, who trained directly with Kelly Hunter and recently co-produced Pericles alongside her at Phamaly in May. Co-facilitating with Ben, Teaching Artists from Phamaly, trained in the Hunter Heartbeat method, richly personalize session content to the needs of participants.

Known for its themes of magic, betrayal, and forgiveness, The Tempest, is a magical tale of shipwreck, revenge, and reconciliation, where a sorcerer orchestrates events on a remote island to confront the past and restore harmony. Shakespeare’s language from this play, rich in emotion and action, serves as the foundation for simple and repetitive creative dramatic play applicable to any age and ability.