North Central Ballet will present its first sensory-friendly performance of The Nutcracker in an attempt to make the holiday classic more accessible for people with autism, sensory processing disorders and others who benefit from a gentler theatrical environment.
The Gentle Nutcracker, held at the I.M. Terrell Performing Arts Center, will feature 50% softer lighting, lower sound levels, flexible seating, noise-dampening headphones and fidget items. Audience members can also step out into the lobby as a designated calm zone to take breaks during the show.
“It's truly our responsibility to make that accessible to everyone,” said Les Jordan III, North Central Ballet’s founder and artistic director.
This marks the first year in Jordan’s 31 years of presenting the classic Christmas ballet that he has offered a “sensory friendly” adaptation. Jordan said he was inspired to create the new performance after a mother reached out earlier this year asking if the company offered sensory-friendly shows. At the time, it did not.
“The magic of Nutcracker should be accessible to every child and family,” he said. “This performance removes all those barriers and creates an experience where everybody can feel a part of it and feel involved.”
To prepare, the company teamed up with MHMR of Tarrant County, a community-based service for youth and adults with mental health conditions. The agency led a two-hour training for the company’s ushers on how to support patrons with sensory sensitivities. Staff learned strategies including putting tape over automatic bathroom sensors, which can startle guests, and adjusting potentially triggering moments in the ballet such as softening the cannon sounds in the battle scene.
The ballet will still present the traditional Nutcracker ballet for the general public. Jordan said the company hopes to continue offering sensory-friendly shows in future seasons.
“I think this will be very, very popular,” he said. “We're gonna be able to reach families who have never been able to take their kids to traditional theater before.”
Details:
Dec. 14 at the I.M. Terrell Performing Arts Center. 1411 I.M. Terrell Circle South, Fort Worth. Tickets start at $10
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