Talented Cast Win National Award
The twenty-strong cast won in the Most Creative Community category in The National Autistic Society's (NAS) Autism Professionals Awards 2014. The annual ceremony, which first took place in 2013, recognises and rewards services and professionals that lead the way in innovative autism practice and make a real difference to the lives of people with the condition in the UK.
The Tree and the Abbey is thought to be the first play performed at the Fringe where the majority of the cast have autism. Written and directed by Autism Practitioner, Scott Daly, the play tells the social history of Fife narrated by a tree which stands in the grounds of Dunfermline Abbey. It features a range of characters from the community and revitalises a number of tragic and enriching events from Fife’s history.
A variety of our staff in Fife were involved in making costumes, promoting the play and encouraging and guiding rehearsals, which took place in our main service unit in Dunfermline.
Autism Practitioner Scott Daly said: "On behalf of the cast, I would like to say that we are honoured to win in the Autism Professionals Awards 2014. Performing The Tree and the Abbey at the Festival required a considerable amount of passion, commitment, creativity and hard work from staff and service users alike. It was an ambitious and creative community project which has provided huge benefits to service users in Fife through building confidence, social skills and opportunities for self expression. By performing at an international festival, the production has helped raise society’s expectations of people with autism.”
Carol Povey, Director of the Centre for Autism at the NAS said: “The cast of The Tree and the Abbey and Scottish Autism should be commended for standing out from a truly exceptional shortlist.
“The finalists highlight some of the groundbreaking work going on across the UK to improve the lives of people affected by autism. It is important that we share their achievements so that other individuals and organisations can follow in their footsteps and ensure we live in a world where people with autism can reach their full potential.
“With the right support people with autism can live the life they choose.”
The winner was revealed at an awards dinner held on the first night of the NAS’ Professional Conference on 4 March 2014 at The Royal Hall, Harrogate. The awards were judged by a panel of 12 leading experts in the field of autism from a variety of professional backgrounds across the UK.
Jackie Latto, Director of Autism Services, Jill Ferguson, Central Services Manager and Val Laurie, Autism Practitioner collected the award on behalf of the cast.
