9/19/2022
sensory friendly / Sensory Inclusive
One Southern Nevada mother recalls that for many years, she felt reluctant to bring her son on the autism spectrum to a theater production.
She shared the concerns of many families with members on the spectrum. People with sensory needs can be highly sensitive to loud noise and light, for instance, and some struggle with breaking daily routines.
But this parent didn’t need worry about any of that, when she took her son to sensory inclusive performances at The Smith Center.
“I'm so grateful to The Smith Center for providing my son with the opportunity to enjoy the arts,” she says.
Aiming to make live theater welcoming for all, sensory inclusive performances are designed to accommodate audiences across the autism spectrum and with other sensory sensitivities, including those with physical, emotional, intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Sensory inclusive shows provide a judgment-free environment with relaxed theater etiquette, reductions of jarring noises and lights, designated quiet areas for individuals to take a break during the performance, and specially trained support staff.
“Since The Smith Center began hosting sensory inclusive performances for our special-needs children, my son has grown to love the theater,” the Southern Nevada mother says.
To provide more uplifting experiences for families like hers, The Smith Center will present acclaimed sensory inclusive shows throughout the upcoming season.
“The Smith Center’s sensory inclusive shows are completely welcoming and supportive for anyone who wants to attend, with a theater environment thoughtfully designed to support a variety of needs,” says Melanie Jupp, director of Education and Outreach at The Smith Center. “This provides a safe environment for those who might not feel comfortable attending a traditional performance, including those with disabilities and conditions that require extra support.”
Sensory Inclusive Shows for All Ages
The Smith Center’s upcoming sensory inclusive shows will delight family members of all ages.
Reflecting the high demand for sensory inclusive experiences, tickets sold out quickly for whimsical family musical “The Pout-Pout Fish” in October, based on the bestselling children’s book.
Tickets are still available for the heartwarming, musical adaptation of children’s book “The Gruffalo” on January 28, which will deliver comedy and rollicking songs in its tale of a mouse confronting cunning and spirited forest animals.
“Grace for President” on February 11, also adapted from a bestselling book, portrays an empowered student aiming to become America’s first female president. Tickets also remain available for this show.
“These productions offer joyful storylines that families can enjoy together,” Jupp says. “They also provide valuable lessons, like the importance of kindness, empathy and believing in yourself.”
The Smith Center Leads the Way
As a nonprofit, The Smith Center serves as an industry leader in presenting sensory inclusive shows.
The center’s Education and Outreach team regularly consults and collaborates with experts in disability and inclusion, and even attends sensory inclusive productions across the country, in order to offer the highest quality of experience for audiences.
“The Smith Center team is constantly adapting and refining our approach to sensory inclusive performances,” Jupp says.
This includes providing sensory inclusive audiences with pre-show informational materials to prepare for their visit. The Smith Center also distributes tactile toys for audience members to hold during the performance, to help accommodate their sensory needs.
The center has presented sensory inclusive shows of numerous productions, including musicals in its Broadway Las Vegas® Series such as Disney’s “The Lion King” and Dr. Seuss’ "How The Grinch Stole Christmas, The Musical!"
“We understand audience members at sensory inclusive shows simply want to enjoy a special day with their loved ones,” Jupp says. “We strive to do everything possible to reduce their worries and give them a positive experience at the theater.”
LEARN MORE
To learn more about sensory inclusive productions at The Smith Center, CLICK HERE.