Sensory Friendly Programming
CTC understands that patrons with Autism Spectrum Disorder and Sensory Processing Disorder have unique and varying sensory needs and sensitivities, as may individuals with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, anxiety, and other sensory, social, and cognitive disabilities and mental illnesses.
CTC values creating accessible theatre experiences for all individuals in our community and is committed to increasing access and inclusion for individuals with sensory sensitivities.
At our Sensory Friendly performances, sensory modifications are balanced with preserving the engaging theatre experience desired by all children and families.
What to expect
- Audience lights left on low throughout the entire performance
- Overall sound reduction throughout the entire performance; noise-reducing headphones and disposable ear plugs are also available at the Audience Services and Access Desk.
- Aspects of productions may be modified for the Sensory Friendly performance. These modifications may include changes to lighting, sounds, and performance qualities such as eliminating strobe effects, lessening the intensity of a sound effect, and modifying actor-audience interaction.
- Access to the Take-a-Break Space, which is equipped with a variety of fidgets, weighted blankets, and other sensory supports
- When attending shows on the UnitedHealth Group Stage, access to the Quiet Room, a place that allows the performance to be viewed with some separation from the audience
- Additional CTC staff who’ve received training from Fraser and on-site volunteers from Fraser
Audience members are welcome to bring their own manipulatives, seat cushions, comfort objects, and extra support items to the show. Families may select their own seats when purchasing tickets online, but if special assistance or a buffer seat is needed, please contact the Ticket Office at 612.874.0400.
Pre-Visit Resources
Sensory Guides and Social Narratives
A production-specific Sensory Guide and Social Narrative designed to prepare patrons for the experience of attending the production, available online the week of the designated performance.
Social Story
A Social Story is a written story that shows information about a social situation to convey behavioral expectations and prepare for a new environment. It is a common tool for people with Autism Spectrum Disorders, created to structure social skills, improve appropriate behavior, and increase engagement.
SOCIAL STORY: UNITEDHEALTH GROUP STAGE
Meet Your Seat
Meet Your Seat opportunities are provided to reduce stress and support successful priming for the actual event. To schedule a Meet Your Seat visit prior to your scheduled performance date, email Patron Experience Manager Jori Walton at jwalton@childrenstheatre.org.
Sensory Friendly Performances
Zip Zap Circus: MOYA
UnitedHealth Group Stage
Soar into the visual spectacle of this pulsating acrobatic performance that explores the spirit and vitality of township life, backed by the energetic beat of South African pop music!
Friday, October 11, 3024 at 7pm
Drawing Lessons
Cargill Stage
Experience the energy of a graphic novelist’s imagination at work as you’re drawn into this innovative story that magically takes place both on stage and on screen!
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2024 AT 7PM
Dr. Seuss’s How The Grinch Stole Christmas!
UnitedHealth Group Stage
In this CTC holiday favorite filled with music and Seussian rhymes, everyone’s favorite grouchy, green Grinch plots the greatest heist imaginable—stealing the very thing the joyful Whos love the most!
FRIDAY, December 13, 2024 AT 7PM
FRIDAY, January 3, 2025 AT 7PM
Leonardo! A Wonderful Show about a Terrible Monster
Cargill Stage
Nationally acclaimed theatre company Manual Cinema breathes innovative life into this beloved story by Mo Willems, using hundreds of puppets to magically create a movie right before your very eyes!
FRIDAY, February 14, 2025 AT 7PM
Milo Imagines the World
UnitedHealth Group Stage
Don’t miss this world-premiere musical, featuring dynamic new songs ranging from hip hop and pop to country as Milo learns that real life can sometimes be even more incredible than an imaginary one!
Children’s Theatre Company’s production of
Disney’s Frozen The Broadway Musical
UnitedHealth Group Stage
Don’t miss the Children’s Theatre Company production of the hit Broadway musical! Sing along with Elsa, Anna, and Olaf, a snowman who melts your heart. You won’t want to let it go!
This season’s Sensory Friendly programming is made possible with support from
