Trinity Rep continues sensory-friendly performances for all shows in 2019-20 season

Posted

In support of its commitment to theater for all, Trinity Repertory Company announces a series of performances of shows in the 2019-20 Season to made to meet the needs of audience members with autism and/or with sensory-processing disorders. Sensory-friendly performances will be identical to other performances of the run, but will feature a flashing red light placed discretely in the theater to let patrons know when a loud sound or intense lighting cue (such as strobe lights) is about to play, as well as a list of moments that may be overwhelming. Tickets to Trinity Rep’s sensory-friendly performances can be purchased as a subscription starting at $120 for all six plays or starting at $27 for single productions. Subscriptions are available now and non-subscription tickets will go on sale August 20.

This is the third year that Trinity Rep has offered a sensory-friendly subscription series option, which is part of the organization’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. Trinity Rep has established this program with a neurodiverse staff, including our sensory-friendly consultants, Dan Boyle, and Daniel Perkins. In the third year, the focus will be on increasing awareness of the performances and growing the audience, which has already seen substantial growth since the introduction of the program.

The Sensory-Friendly Series includes the following performances:

The Prince of Providence on Tuesday, October 15 at 7:30 pm

Fade on Tuesday, December 31 at 7:30 pm

August Wilson’s Radio Golf on Tuesday, February 25, 2020 at 7:30 pm

A Tale of Two Cities on Tuesday, March 17, 2020 at 7:30 pm

Sweat on Tuesday, April 28, 2020 at 7:30 pm

Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street on Tuesday, May 19, 2020, at 7:30 pm

In addition to a red warning light before intense sound and light effects, sensory-friendly performances will offer trained ushers in the audience to offer assistance, a social story and plot synopsis sent in advance, and a safe space in the lobby for patrons to return to if they need a break from the performance.

Dan Boyle and Daniel Perkins, Trinity Rep’s sensory-friendly consultants, explain their process of preparing for the sensory-friendly performance with Dan Boyle saying, “We watch each performance and we curate a list of triggering items for all who come to see the shows.” Daniel Perkins adds, “To alert patrons to the triggers, there’s a red light on either side of the stage that lights before a tense moment. It’s to prepare patrons who may want to cover their ears, their eyes, or leave the room should they feel uncomfortable.”

Comments

No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here