CATCO is offering sensory friendly performances for several CATCO is Kids productions. “Sensory friendly” is a term used to describe experiences that have been adapted to fit the needs of individuals with autism and other sensory and social disabilities. Sensory friendly performances are a great way to make CATCO is Kids performances accessible to our audience members with sensory sensitivities. They can also be great access points for families with young children.

Performances will be modified in the following ways:

  • Prior to the performance, families will have access to a printable “social story” that will help audience members know what to expect.

  • Lighting changes (lights flashing, dimming and getting brighter, etc.) will be minimal. Lights in the auditorium may not go all the way “down,” and there may be more subdued lighting onstage.
  • Sound levels may be reduced. If there is a scene in the production with an unexpected loud noise, the volume may be reduced, and/or the audience will be warned before it happens.

  • Seating will be General Admission, and the theatre will not be completely full. This can make performances more comfortable for individuals who do not like feeling crowded or physically restricted by being surrounded by others.

  • Audience members are encouraged to get up and move around, or take a break in the lobby if needed.

  • “Sensory bags” will be provided by The Autism Society of Central Ohio that will be available for loan, upon request. Each bag will include items such as fidget toys, noise-cancelling earmuffs, and other common supports for individuals with sensory processing needs.

CATCO is Kids is offering sensory friendly performances for several CATCO is Kids productions.  “Sensory friendly” is a term used to describe experiences that have been adapted to fit the needs of individuals with autism and other sensory and social disabilities.  These performances are presented in partnership with the Autism Society of Central Ohio and are sponsored by PNC.

Performances will be modified in the following ways:

  • Prior to the performance, families will have access to a printable “social story” that will help audience members know what to expect.

  • Lighting changes (lights flashing, dimming and getting brighter, etc.) will be minimal. Lights in the auditorium may not go all the way “down,” and there may be more subdued lighting onstage.
  • Sound levels may be reduced. If there is a scene in the production with an unexpected loud noise, the volume may be reduced, and/or the audience will be warned before it happens.

  • Seating will be General Admission, and the theatre will not be completely full. This can make performances more comfortable for individuals who do not like feeling crowded or physically restricted by being surrounded by others.

  • Audience members are encouraged to get up and move around, or take a break in the lobby if needed.

  • “Sensory bags” will be provided by The Autism Society of Central Ohio that will be available for loan, upon request. Each bag will include items such as fidget toys, noise-cancelling earmuffs, and other common supports for individuals with sensory processing needs.

There are no scheduled sensory friendly dates at this time. Please check back at a later date.

Our Sensory Friendly performances are presented in partnership with:

Sponsored by:

Questions?

Email Andrew Protopapas at aprotopapas@catco.org