Roxey Ballet will present a sensory-friendly performance of its annual extravaganza, Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker. This holiday event will include a friendly, supportive environment for families with a loved one with special needs.
“We want to make sure we are always connecting and building bridges to all parts of our community,” Mark Roxey, founding director of Roxey Ballet, said. “We are excited to create these types of access opportunities for people living with autism to participate in a way that makes dance more accessible and enjoyable to them.”
Adaptations to the performance include lower sound levels, elimination of special effects and special lighting, with house lights on at about 20 percent. Additionally, patrons will be free to get up, move around and leave as needed. There is allowed use of iPads and other electronics for therapeutic use.
In the lobby, there will be quiet areas and activity areas. Fidget objects and earplugs will be available. All staff, dancers, ushers and volunteers are specially trained for this performance and will be scattered throughout the theater to assist and direct audience members as needed.
“Studies have shown that theater experiences increase social skills for students with autism,” Hailey Glover, director of education and outreach, said. “Our sensory-friendly performance allows everyone to experience ballet in a comfortable, nurturing, and accepting environment.”
Roxey Ballet’s Nutcracker cast features more than 80 young artists across New Jersey and Pennsylvania. The performance aligns with International Day of Persons with Disabilities and celebrates the accessibility of dance for all.
The performance will be held on Dec. 3rd at 2 p.m. at The College of New Jersey’s Kendall Theater.⨠All tickets for this performance are $20. For more information, visit roxeyballet.org.
