For some audience members, part of the thrill of live theater comes from the way it involves the senses. The bright lights above the stage are juxtaposed with the hushed darkness of the house; the performers’ voices are projected all the way to the last row of seats; and the play or musical asks for our full focus—no phones, no wandering around, no chatting with our seatmates.
But for many theatergoers, the sensory experiences of a live performance can be uncomfortable—or simply too much. “Traditional theater environments with dim lighting, startling sounds, long periods of sitting still, or strict behavioral expectations can be overwhelming or inaccessible for many members of the community,” says Gina Brady, sensory supports and training program manager at Fraser, a Minneapolis-based organization that provides services around autism, mental health, and disabilities.
Increasingly, theaters are offerings sensory-friendly performances to remove barriers that have historically excluded many community members from participating fully in the arts. In just one example, Brady and other experts at Fraser have partnered with Children’s Theatre Company to design sensory-friendly performances for many of its shows—including “Go, Dog. Go!” which runs through Feb. 22.
Courtesy of Children's Theatre Company
“Sensory-friendly performances acknowledge that there is no single ‘right’ way to experience theater,” says Brady. These shows typically involve a combination of environmental adjustments—like adjusting sound levels and lighting effects and keeping house lights partially on—and communication strategies, she adds. Audience members can stand, vocalize, move around, and can even step out into a quiet and calm space for a break. “The goal isn’t to eliminate sensory experiences altogether but to offer choices, predictability, and flexibility, so audience members can engage in ways that feel comfortable to them,” Brady says.
Importantly, she notes, sensory-friendly performances are often thought of as the purview of young children, but people of all ages and needs can find them helpful. “Sensory differences exist across the lifespan,” Brady says. “People of all ages benefit from accessible environments and experiences. Ultimately, sensory-friendly theater supports the idea that the arts belong to everyone and that inclusion strengthens the experience for the entire community.”
Courtesy of Children's Theatre Company
What To Know Before You Go
If you’re attending a sensory-friendly performance, it can be helpful to review any guidelines or social narratives from the theater ahead of time. Experts also recommend arriving early to get familiar with the space and adjust to what might be a new environment before the show begins.
And remember—the arts are for everyone. “Many individuals and families share that sensory-friendly shows are their first positive theater experience and often become a stepping stone to attending other performances in the future,” Brady says. These productions send an important message, she adds: “You belong here exactly as you are.”
Still have a few Qs? We asked Gina Brady to answer some common questions from patrons about sensory-friendly performances.
Can I leave my seat if I need a break?
Yes!
What if my child makes noise or moves around?
That’s okay—everyone is there with similar expectations.
Can I bring sensory tools like headphones, fidgets, or comfort items?
Absolutely, and if you forget, these are sometimes available to borrow during performances.
Courtesy of Children's Theatre Company
Curtains Up!
Several Twin Cities theaters offer sensory-friendly or “relaxed” performances this spring.
Children’s Theatre Company, Minneapolis
“Go, Dog. Go!”
Feb. 20 and 22
“Dinosaur World Live”
March 29 and April 3
“The Wizard of Oz”
May 29 and June 7
Children’s Performing Arts, White Bear Lake
“Matilda Jr.”
Feb. 14
Stages Theatre Company, Hopkins
“The Girl Who Drank the Moon”
April 4
The Guthrie Theater, Minneapolis
“Sleuth”
April 19
Courtesy of Children's Theatre Company
