'Diversi Noi - Different Us': theatre that unites, moves and gives voice
Last Friday 9 May, Casa Saddi - a cultural jewel set in the heart of Pirri - opened its doors to an extraordinary event: the preview of the play 'Diversi Noi' (Different Us), directed by Rita Atzeri, realised within the framework of the European project Self Determination by Theatre (SDIT).
It was an intense, emotional and meaningful evening, which saw a sold-out audience of parents, professionals, activists and members from all over Europe, guests in Cagliari to attend the Annual General Assembly of Autism-Europe.
Diversamente ODV, partner of the SDIT project and promoter of the evening, had the honour of welcoming important personalities, including Piero Comandini, President of the Regional Council of Sardinia; Marco Espa, President of the association ABC Italia - Associazione Bambini Cerebrolesi; and Francesca Palmas, pedagogist, Head of School and Study Centre of the association ABC Italia and member of the Observatory on school inclusion of the MIUR.
In their speeches, institutional guests and association representatives emphasised the value of culture as a space for inclusion and change. The potential of theatre was recognised not only as an artistic form, but as a concrete tool for expression, self-determination and active citizenship.
After these speeches, the floor was given to Alessandra Corvino, one of the local SDIT project contact persons, who spoke about the deep meaning of the theatrical path experienced by the young people involved:
"This play is not a simple theatrical performance. It is the fruit of months of work, of meetings, of listening to each other. It is an act of self-determination, a space where everyone can express themselves for what they are, without filters, without masks."
She added: "All of us, as a society, must ask ourselves: are we ready to really listen? Are we ready to make room for forms of communication other than our own? Theatre teaches us that change is possible. That a common language can be built even from deep differences."
The show "Diversi Noi" (Different Us) was able to recount with poetic force and authenticity the growth path of a group of young autistic people, showing the audience how theatre can become a tool of awareness, relationship and community.
The members and staff of Autism-Europe were impressed by the vibrant energy and talent of the actors on stage and emphasised how events like this represent a concrete example of good practice that can be replicated in other European contexts.
This event was the culmination of a weekend full of exchanges, meetings and comparisons, with theatre as a universal language capable of overcoming all barriers.
We look forward to seeing you again in June for the full show!
