Eithne recalled how it was a touching experience to see her daughter come out of her shell and become more comfortable with the performances and activities.
“I think it has all brought her out of herself and her engagement and her eye contact.”
Ailís was able to develop and flourish over the course of the project, becoming more curious and playful with each visit from the Pop Up Picnic team. During their first visit, she was quick to shy away from Niamh (performer) and Thomas (musician), keeping an eye on them but not really interacting. As she became increasingly more familiar with the experience, she began to properly engage in the activities and delight in all of the rich tastes, textures, scents, sights, and sounds that the picnic has to offer.