SENSORY FRIENDLY PERFORMANCE
WHAT IS IT?
A Sensory Friendly performance is a theater production that welcomes individuals with sensory needs, including people on the autism spectrum, as well as first-time theatergoers and young children. The show is modified to allow for patron movement and all patrons are welcome to experience theater in a safe, non-judgmental environment.
ADJUSTMENTS
Environmental adjustments to create a friendly, supportive environment, as well as alterations to the performance, include:
A Sensory Friendly performance is a theater production that welcomes individuals with sensory needs, including people on the autism spectrum, as well as first-time theatergoers and young children. The show is modified to allow for patron movement and all patrons are welcome to experience theater in a safe, non-judgmental environment.
ADJUSTMENTS
Environmental adjustments to create a friendly, supportive environment, as well as alterations to the performance, include:
- Being outdoors during the day, there will be no flashing lights.
- The intensity of sound effects will be reduced
- A staffed quiet area will be available in the lobby for children who need to take a break from the show
- There will be a relaxed and inclusive atmosphere where patrons can feel comfortable during the performance and enter or exit the theater during the performance, with the assistance of ushers
- Volunteers will be on hand to assist with patron needs
- A limited supply of sensory bags will be provided during performances.
YOU CAN HELP BY CONTRIBUTING ITEMS TO THE SENSORY BAGS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHO SHOULD ATTEND THIS PERFORMANCE?
The Sensory Friendly performance is specially designed for individuals with sensory input disorders and autism spectrum disorder, and their families and caretakers. We have made alterations to the environment of the theater, both inside and out, to facilitate a judgment-free, fun experience for the entire family. Movement and vocal reactions to the show are anticipated.
CAN PEOPLE WITHOUT AUTISM OR OTHER SENSORY SENSITIVITIES ATTEND THIS PERFORMANCE?
Yes. Sensory Friendly performances of our family programming are also a good choice for families with first-time theatergoers and young children. The A.R.T. strongly suggests that all patrons familiarize themselves with the adjustments and expectations of the Sensory Friendly performance in order to help create a welcoming and accommodating environment for all audience members.
MY CHILD, FAMILY MEMBER, AND/OR CLIENT WITH AUTISM HAS DIFFICULTY WITH TRANSITIONS. IS THERE ANYTHING I CAN DO TO PREP THEM FOR THIS NEW EXPERIENCE?
Buck Creek Players will provide a social story to help you prepare for the full theatrical experience.
CAN I BRING HEADPHONES, FIDGET TOYS, OR OTHER ITEMS THAT HELP MY CHILD, FAMILY MEMBER, AND/OR CLIENT?
Yes. Buck Creek Players will also be providing a limited supply of sensory bags to use during the show.
WILL THE SPACE BE WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE?
Buck Creek Player’s parking lot is handicap accessible. It is important to keep in mind that the outdoor seating is in a grassy area.
ARE SERVICE ANIMALS ALLOWED?
Yes. Service animals are allowed to accompany patrons during the performance.
IF MY CHILD, FAMILY MEMBER, AND/OR CLIENT IS NOT ABLE TO SIT THROUGH THE PERFORMANCE, WILL WE BE ABLE TO LEAVE THE THEATRE? IF THEY DECIDE TO, WILL WE BE ABLE TO RETURN TO OUR SEAT?
Yes, ushers and staff will be available to guide patrons to the lobby. If your child/family member/client decides they cannot finish the show, you can leave the theater early. If they simply need a break, the lobby will have quiet areas available. Whenever possible, an usher will guide you back to your original seats when you are ready to return.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND THIS PERFORMANCE?
The Sensory Friendly performance is specially designed for individuals with sensory input disorders and autism spectrum disorder, and their families and caretakers. We have made alterations to the environment of the theater, both inside and out, to facilitate a judgment-free, fun experience for the entire family. Movement and vocal reactions to the show are anticipated.
CAN PEOPLE WITHOUT AUTISM OR OTHER SENSORY SENSITIVITIES ATTEND THIS PERFORMANCE?
Yes. Sensory Friendly performances of our family programming are also a good choice for families with first-time theatergoers and young children. The A.R.T. strongly suggests that all patrons familiarize themselves with the adjustments and expectations of the Sensory Friendly performance in order to help create a welcoming and accommodating environment for all audience members.
MY CHILD, FAMILY MEMBER, AND/OR CLIENT WITH AUTISM HAS DIFFICULTY WITH TRANSITIONS. IS THERE ANYTHING I CAN DO TO PREP THEM FOR THIS NEW EXPERIENCE?
Buck Creek Players will provide a social story to help you prepare for the full theatrical experience.
CAN I BRING HEADPHONES, FIDGET TOYS, OR OTHER ITEMS THAT HELP MY CHILD, FAMILY MEMBER, AND/OR CLIENT?
Yes. Buck Creek Players will also be providing a limited supply of sensory bags to use during the show.
WILL THE SPACE BE WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE?
Buck Creek Player’s parking lot is handicap accessible. It is important to keep in mind that the outdoor seating is in a grassy area.
ARE SERVICE ANIMALS ALLOWED?
Yes. Service animals are allowed to accompany patrons during the performance.
IF MY CHILD, FAMILY MEMBER, AND/OR CLIENT IS NOT ABLE TO SIT THROUGH THE PERFORMANCE, WILL WE BE ABLE TO LEAVE THE THEATRE? IF THEY DECIDE TO, WILL WE BE ABLE TO RETURN TO OUR SEAT?
Yes, ushers and staff will be available to guide patrons to the lobby. If your child/family member/client decides they cannot finish the show, you can leave the theater early. If they simply need a break, the lobby will have quiet areas available. Whenever possible, an usher will guide you back to your original seats when you are ready to return.
