Stage fright to social success: theatre program shows promise for adults with autism

NCT ID NCT04349644

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Vanderbilt University Medical Center Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested a theatre-based program called SENSE Theatre for adults with autism. 72 participants took part in 10 sessions of role-play and peer interaction, ending with a public performance. The goal was to see if this approach could improve social skills like reading faces and having conversations.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: SENSE Theatre (a peer-mediated, theatre-based behavioral intervention involving role-play and performance)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a fun, practical way to help adults with autism build social confidence and connect better with others.
What could go wrong: This is a small pilot study with only 72 people, so results may not apply to everyone. The program is time-intensive and may not work for all adults with autism.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

autism autism spectrum disorder Social Skills

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER

Contacts and locations

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Locations

Vanderbilt University Medical Center

Nashville, Tennessee, 37212, United States

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