“A CRIAÇÃO”: EXPERIÊNCIAS DE TEATRO E DANÇA NA ASSOCIAÇÃO DE PAIS E AMIGOS DOS EXCEPCIONAIS (APAE) EM MACAÍBA/RN

Abstract

This paper reports on the preparatory processes and experiences of theater and dance classes for young people assisted by the Associação de pais e amigos dos excepcionais (APAE), in the city of Macaíba (RN), which took place during the years 2023 and 2024. The importance of theater as a strategy for inclusion and socio-emotional development for people with disabilities is highlighted here, exploring the benefits observed in the areas of cognitive, emotional and social impairment of participants. The methodological choice of the work at APAE-Macaíba involved the adaptation of theater game techniques to meet the specific needs of the students, promoting creative expression, non-verbal communication and social interaction, in the construction of the show “A Criação”. The results of this process, observed in the daily life of the institution, indicate significant improvements in the self-esteem of these young people, in their capacities for emotional expression and in a greater mastery of teamwork skills, evidencing the transformative potential of these performing arts as an effective form of inclusive education. This report contributes to the field of special education by demonstrating that cultural activities such as theater can play a crucial role in the integral development and social inclusion of individuals with special needs.