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Sensory Friendly Performance of ‘Seussical’ & KiDS Day Camp for Children on the Autism Spectrum, Dr. Seuss Birthday Celebration to Take Place at Matthews Playhouse on Saturday, March 4, 2023.
(Matthews, NC)—Dr. Seuss’ most beloved characters will spring to life on stage at the Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts, when Seussical launches its 2-week run beginning February 24, 2023. As part of its mission to make the arts more accessible to all, the theatre has added a special performance of the iconic musical that has been modified for children with sensory sensitivities and their families. This sensory-friendly performance of Seussical will be at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 4, 2023.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, one in every 44 children in the U.S. has some form of autism and/or pervasive developmental disorder that falls within the autism spectrum. Matthews Playhouse Executive Director, Sarah Baumgardner, believes offering sensory friendly performances and engaging children on the autism spectrum is an important step in making the performing arts more inclusive.
“We’ve heard from multiple families who have children with autism, sensory sensitivities, or other social, learning or cognitive disabilities,” says Baumgardner. As a parent of a child on the autism spectrum, Baumgardner recognizes the need for experiences like this. “Our sensory friendly performance of Seussical is intended to create a more welcoming and comfortable arts experience for them.”
The 11 a.m. performance of Seussical on Saturday, March 4, 2023 will be modified to have lower sound and light levels and eliminate startling or loud sounds. The theatre will remain dimly lit during the performance, and audience members will be allowed to stand, roam around, and come and go as needed. Parents are also welcome to bring certain items that provide their children comfort, cushions, headphones, electronics, snacks, and other support items. Designated quiet and calm spaces will be available to children as needed.
KiDS Seussical Camp (Ages 7-12) 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. March 4, 2023
To mark the occasion of Dr. Seuss's Birthday, a nationwide reading celebration that takes place annually on March 2nd, the theatre will also offer a special Seussical themed KiDS (Kids with Disabilities in the Spotlight) Camp prior to the performance beginning at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, March 4, 2023. Space is limited to 15 students and participants must pre register prior to the event. Cost: $25 per child (includes a special art project, special activities and a ticket for the 11:00 am performance. (Snacks not included). Interested families may learn more and register by clicking here.
Seussical is recommended for children ages 4 and up. Showtimes and tickets are available at www.matthewsplayhouse.com/seussical. Regular ticket prices range from $10-$19.
About the Matthews Playhouse
The Matthews Playhouse of the Performing Arts is a community based non-profit theatre committed to enriching the lives of children, adults, and families by inviting them to participate
in the world of performing arts and education. We commit to this mission by ensuring the excellence of our cultural programs for the participation and enjoyment of the people in our community.