Sensory Inclusive Programs are designed to welcome all patrons – those with and without disabilities – into a supportive, judgement free environment through physical and cultural modifications. A regular theatrical or musical performance may be too loud, too bright, or too busy for people with autism, sensory processing disorders, or other intellectual or developmental disabilities.
A Bit of History
The Autism Theatre Initiative (ATI) of Theatre Development Fund (TDF) in New York City pioneered the first autism friendly Broadway musical with The Lion King in 2011. This idea was born in the heart and mind of Lisa Carling, the director of TDF’s Accessibility Programs. She listened to parents describe their negative experiences when trying to bring their children with autism or sensory sensitivities to theatre performances designed for a general audience. Working with autism specialists and individuals with autism, ATI (now known as TDF’s Autism Friendly Performances Program – www.tdf.org/autism) discovered ways to modify productions to be more sensory inclusive. The script was never changed and the integrity of the show was never compromised. Modifications were made to certain technical aspects but the show remained intact.
Today, theatres across the U.S. are offering Sensory Inclusive Programs. These presentations are designed to create a performing arts experience in a comfortable, relaxed, judgment-free zone that is welcoming to individuals and families with children who have developmental disabilities that create sensory sensitivities. These are not exclusive, segregated performances for individuals solely with sensory sensitivities or autism.These are inclusive performances that embrace the concepts of Universal Design with the ultimate goal of creating a shared experience for an audience, regardless of one’s abilities.The term that best describes these shows is Sensory Inclusive.