From Isolation to Center Stage: Matthew’s Journey with Autism

Matthew Hasley’s journey from a quiet, isolated child to a confident lead actor is a powerful testament to the transformative power of support and the arts.

Diagnosed with autism at an early age, Matthew’s life began with struggles. His mom, Trissa, quit her job to stay home with him. Matthew did not speak until he was 5 years old – and then only a few words. With the therapy programs available at a private school for autistic children, he learned how to communicate and to do things in a world that didn’t understand him or his disability. With support and encouragement from his doctors and teachers, along with Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) Therapy, he learned communication and basic life skills. 

“I always felt a bit isolated as a child,” said Matthew. “Growing up, it felt like I never truly belonged and I grew depressed because of it. I spent most of my time in my room.”

Life dramatically changed when his family moved from Texas to Naples. In high school, Matthew discovered a passion for the marching band and theater. These activities, combined with crucial support from both The Naples Players (TNP) improv and Lorenzo Walker’s Project Explore program, became his turning point. 

“Both helped me grow in my confidence, communication skills and self-love,” Matthew stated.” I have made some great friends and have supportive mentors. I couldn’t be more grateful.”

Matthew credits TNP improv instructors, Craig Price and Kit FitzSimons with motivating him to hone the skills that ultimately led him to audition for a lead role in The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time – a role he successfully landed.

Craig recalls Matthew’s participation in TNP’s Improv for Communication Skills, held on Friday evenings. “Improv classes help kids and parents communicate better, and everyone is invited, whether verbal or nonverbal. Over time, families – the kids and parents – become close friends. One of my favorite experiences was seeing them meet at local restaurants for trivia night. Parents sat at one table; the kids at another. The kids – Matthew’s group of young friends – were “crushing” it!”

Playing the role of Chris in Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time seems particularly well-suited for Matthew. This inspiring story helps the audience see the world through the eyes of a brilliant teenager as he navigates challenges, celebrates his unique perspective, and discovers his own extraordinary potential. “I enjoy acting with The Naples Players and find it helpful in so many ways. Acting and participating in improv has taught me to better communicate in unexpected situations and realize that acceptance can be found,” Matthew shared.

While pursuing his education, Matthew plans to continue participating in TNP performances to build his acting skills. To achieve his career goal to become a chef, Matthew is enrolled in Project Explorer at Lorenzo Walker Technical College to study culinary arts and is currently working with the food and beverage staff at Moorings Park. 

During difficult times, Matthew uses coping skills he learned previously in therapy and other tools he found work best for him, including working out and going for walks. “My mom and dad are the most supportive people I know and they continue to help me through all of my growing pains.” 

“The biggest lesson I can share with others – especially those with any physical or mental disabilities – is to never give up on yourself because I guarantee there is something out there for you,” shared Matthew. “You just need to try your best and work hard for it. You can do this! It’s not always easy but it’s never impossible. Even if it doesn’t seem like you’re moving forward, every step is progress.”

With support from his family, friends and classmates at The Naples Players, Matthew made exceptional strides to overcome his disability and challenges. He willingly shares his experiences and provides inspiration to others with disabilities. “We are people, too, even if we don’t act like you think we should. Our feelings, goals and desires to be a part of friendships and communities is the same.”

Matthew’s story is a shining example of resilience and incredible potential unlocked when individuals with autism and other disabilities are given the right tools and a welcoming stage.

(ABA) therapy for autism uses principles of learning and behavior to teach new skills and reduce harmful behaviors, focusing on positive reinforcement to encourage desired actions like communication, social skills, and daily living, while decreasing challenging behaviors, helping individuals with autism better function and participate in life.

The success of programs like those at TNP highlights a critical need. Craig notes that the improv classes, initially serving five students a month eight years ago, have grown to serve more than 500 students each month. These inclusive environments welcome everyone, verbal or nonverbal, fostering a strong supportive community, 

“Those of us dealing with sensory issues and on the spectrum often have brains that are working overtime – sometimes in a chaotic way,” said Craig. “Improv provides tools to help us focus, and also to learn to change and adapt. These programs have been demonstrated to give us the ability to ‘go with the flow’ when it feels like our life is going sideways.” 

Craig Price, TNP’s Director of Community Enrichment, and Summer Pliskow, Director of Arts Access, are expanding inclusive programs for children and adults with neurodevelopmental disorders and  sensory needs by successfully creating and offering improv and musical theatre classes at TNP, virtually and with more than 40 local organizations. Their unique skills for fostering human connection truly are making theatre and the arts more accessible to our community.

Kit FitzSimons has been performing, teaching, and coaching improv for 25. With The Naples Players, he teaches improv to all ages at professional workshops and leads Improv for Communication Skills and Acting Out theater programs for STARability Trailblazers, the STARability Music Academy and Child Provider Specialists.

TNP’s mission is to build community through exceptional access to the power of theatre by reaching beyond our classrooms and stages. Arts Access brings together the programs, resources and partnerships that remove barriers and open the door to people of all abilities – and use theatre to make a positive impact across our communities.

For information, visit: https://naplesplayers.org/learn/arts-access/