Sunderland Empire has received a cash injection to stage a range of autism-friendly arts activities. 

Arts Council England has given the theatre £15,000 to fund the events, which coincide with the arrival of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time to the city.

The summer programme of activities are inspired by the tale, which focuses on a teenager who is on the autistic spectrum. NEAS are working in partnership with the theatre to host a range of summer activities for families living with autism. 

Sunderland Empire received support from Sunderland Cultural Partnership who linked the theatre up with other arts organisations who will take part in the programme, including:

• Arts Centre Washington
• Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art 
• No Limits Theatre 
• Sunderland Museum and Winter Gardens

Highlights will include an autism-friendly theatre tour; an insight session of the play; a family learning programme ran in conjunction with National Theatre and autism-friendly taster and creative sessions at the region’s museums and galleries.



Schools, families and groups will receive a Prepare to Get Curious pack, which can be used to support the preparation for visits.

Places are limited and families are asked to get in touch ahead of activities starting this month on 0191 566 1056 or [email protected]

Click on the below links for a full list of the summer programmes:

• Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens activities
• Arts Centre Washington activities
• Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art activities
• Sunderland Empire Theatre activities