Celebrate Children's Day, Fantasy Land Musical Comes with a Friendly and Inclusive Concept for Autistic Children

JAKARTA - The world of performing arts is now increasingly opening up to audiences from various backgrounds, including children with autism spectrum. Through the staging of the musical theater titled Fantasy Land, Regina Art is committed to creating an imagination space that can be accessed by anyone without exception.

"The world of imagination and the magic of theatrical art should be easily accessible and can be enjoyed by all children without exception," said Joane Win, founder of Regina Art and writer of the Fantasy Land script in a press conference, Thursday, July 16.

Joane emphasized that this performance is not just a normal entertainment, but an inclusivity movement. He realized that autistic children need a special, uncomplicated approach so that they can enjoy a performance comfortably.

"Autistic children, they always start a friendship usually with one basis, namely unlimited approach and acceptance. What they need is not complicated words, yes, what they need is a willing environment to understand," said Joane.

This awareness comes from Joane's deep observation of social issues, including those experienced by autistic children. He wants to give them a space to express themselves without feeling judged.

"At first we conveyed the voices of women who experienced violence, then mental illness, and then we started to observe cases in autistic children. And then I started writing about it, Fantasy Land was born," he said.

The performance, which will be held at the Galeri Indonesia Kaya (GIK) on July 18, promises to be a sensory-friendly place. The Fantasy Land musical wants to ensure that every child who attends feels valued in the performance hall.

"We are fully committed to providing a safe, comfortable, and open performance space for all children, especially for autistic children. We believe that everyone who attends will be accepted and appreciated," said Joane.

Director Kemal Ferdiansyah also added that the philosophy of this performance is to humanize children, whatever their condition. For him, every child has the right to move and imagine freely.

"Children must continue to be treated as free human beings. No matter how small they are, children must still be given space to be able to move anywhere in good care," concluded Kemal.