Sensory-Friendly Performances

Sensory-Friendly Performances

The Ashtabula Arts Center now offers sensory-friendly performances in our theater schedule. Sensory-friendly performances are adapted to accommodate audience members on the autism spectrum, and their families.

Our goal with these performances is to create a fun, comfortable theater environment and experience for those members of our community that have concerns about attending a traditional performance because of sensory-processing issues.

Sensory-Friendly Volunteers

What’s different about a sensory-friendly performance?

The exact differences between a traditional performance and a sensory-friendly performance can change depending on the show, but will usually involve adjustments to stage lighting, house lighting, sound effects, music volume, and/or other special effects. (For example, a full blackout on stage might be replaced with partially-lowered lights.)

In addition to adaptations to lights, sounds, and effects, there is an understanding that audience members at these performances may need to stand, move, exit, talk, sing along, or otherwise vocalize or self-stimulate throughout the show. Arts Center staff, volunteers, cast, and crew at these productions will be prepared for these needs.

Finally, audience members at sensory-friendly performances will have the chance to meet cast members and see certain costumes, masks, make-up, and props up close before the show begins, so that characters who might be overwhelming or scary on stage can introduce themselves to young viewers in a friendly, relaxed setting.

Making reservations

Get tickets here for upcoming events, at (440) 964-3396, or stop in at the front desk. Our box office will be happy to work with you to accommodate any special seating requests you have.