Sensory Friendly Performances
A Sensory Friendly performance is a theater production that welcomes individuals with sensory needs, including people on the autism spectrum, as well as first-time theatergoers and young children. The show is modified to allow for patron movement, staff and actors are trained to accommodate patron needs, and all patrons are welcome to experience theater in a safe, non-judgmental environment.
Encore is proud to offer these performances at no cost to our patrons!
Tickets must be reserved on our website, unfortunately we cannot accept walk ins at this time.
Our next Sensory Friendly Performance will be
January 31st at 5:00pm
at the Electric Theater
Frequently Asked Questions
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Please call our box office at (435) 414-0049 to book tickets for you and your famliy!
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A Sensory Friendly performance is a theater production that welcomes individuals with sensory needs, including people on the autism spectrum, as well as first-time theatergoers and young children. The show is modified to allow for patron movement, staff and actors are trained to accommodate patron needs, and all patrons are welcome to experience theater in a safe, non-judgmental environment.
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Environmental adjustments to create a friendly, supportive environment, as well as alterations to the performance, include:
-The house lights will remain dimmed during the performance, rather than completely off
-The intensity of lighting and sound effects will be reduced
-A staffed quiet area will be available in the lobby for those who need to take a break from the show
-There will be a relaxed and inclusive atmosphere where patrons can feel comfortable during the performance and enter or exit the theater during the performance, with the assistance of ushers.
-Trained volunteers will be on hand to assist with patron needs.
-Tablets and smartphones will be permitted to help non-verbal audience members communicate.
-Adjustments will be made to the script and acting to maximize comprehension of the story
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The Sensory Friendly performance is specially designed for individuals with sensory input disorders and autism spectrum disorder, and their families and caretakers. We have made alterations to the environment of the theater, both inside and out, to facilitate a judgment-free, fun experience for the entire family. Movement and vocal reactions to the show are anticipated.
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Yes. Sensory Friendly performances of our family programming are also a good choice for families with first-time theatergoers and young children. Encore strongly suggests that all patrons familiarize themselves with the adjustments and expectations of the Sensory Friendly performance in order to help create a welcoming and accommodating environment for all audience members.
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Yes. There will also be 2 quiet rooms that our patrons can go to if needed.
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Yes. The Electric Theater is fully wheelchair accessible with an automatic door from the sidewalk located at the front of the building. The lobby and entrance to the theater are all at sidewalk level. There are only a few wheelchair spots available so please call first to assure there are spots left.
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Yes, ushers and staff will be available to guide patrons to the lobby. If your child/family member/client decides they cannot finish the show, you can leave the theater early. If they simply need a break, the lobby will have quiet areas available. Whenever possible, an usher will guide you back to your original seats when you are ready to return. Otherwise, you can be reseated in the back of the theater. A quiet area upstairs will have a television with a live feed, so that you and your child/family member/client will be able to watch the production from outside the theater.
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Yes.
MISSION & OBJECTIVE
Encore aims to establish an inclusive and warm atmosphere that welcomes everyone. Through the regular introduction of sensory-friendly performances, Encore endeavors to ensure that individuals of all backgrounds and situations can attend and appreciate Encore productions. Additionally, this initiative serves to educate and equip our staff and performers.
COMMUNITY ADVISORY COMMITTEE
To enhance the overall positive and successful experience for our patrons, Encore has established an advisory committee comprising knowledgeable members from the local St. George community. These individuals possess expertise either as parents, teachers, caregivers, or as individuals identifying as neurodiverse. The formation of this committee involved reaching out to specific contacts within our network, consulting school drama and resource teachers for recommendations, and collaborating with local non-profits such as TURN and RRCI.
Our advisory committee is actively involved in attending performances and dress rehearsals, providing them with an opportunity to witness the show and familiarize themselves with the venue. During these engagements, the committee carefully assesses various aspects of the performance, identifying elements that may require adjustment to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for our patrons with sensory needs.
CREATING A SENSORY FRIENDLY EVENT
We will invite feedback and recommendations from our advisory committee. We will combine those recommendations with our own theatre-specific expertise and accessibility/inclusivity research and training. We make sure to think about the whole experience - both the performance and the rest of the event (preparation, arrival, navigating the space, etc). The best events are specifically built based on the show, space, and community!
Learn about Encore’s A Christmas Carol Sensory Performance.
