We have two sensory-friendly performances coming up this summer: Into the Woods Jr on Thursday, June 28, and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat on Thursday, July 26 (Joseph will be in our indoor theater). Call (440) 964-3396 to order tickets.
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. Adaptations 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.
All Straw Hat Theatre shows begin at 7:30 p.m. Sensory-Friendly meet & greets are at 7 p.m. Please let our box office know about special seating needs you have. Come be part of the art this summer at the AAC!