On September 1st, Réalta School of Speech and Drama celebrates its first birthday! Based in Galway but reaching all around the west, Réalta was established by Speech and Drama teacher, Michelle O’ Grady. Michelle established a school whereby she would run 1:1 drama sessions for children with Autism, travelling to their homes all around the West and in spaces throughout Galway city.
However, the original business idea expanded quickly when people heard what she was doing. Soon, Michelle was contacted by people from all walks of life; adults with Down’s Syndrome, trainee teachers who were nervous about public speaking, highly intelligent teenagers who could not relate to their peers, children who were socially anxious.
After finding out their interests, Michelle will create a personalised session around the student’s needs, interests and abilities. The ability to focus on just the person in front of you and their specific needs is why the 1:1’s are so beneficial.
While still working with many people with Autism, Michelle also runs a mainstream afterschool club for children who just need a little confidence boost and find the large groups overwhelming.
The next step with Réalta is to hopefully establish its own solid premises in Galway city. Michelle has been contacted by parents all around Ireland looking to bring their children, sisters, friends to her so to have a permanent space set up would be ideal. ‘ I am very lucky to have two lovely spaces here in the city where I see students but the dream is my own space completely kitted out for students.’ says Michelle. To celebrate, Réalta is offering 10% off on their Six week 1:1 sessions for the month of September. For more details go to, www.realtadrama.com
