Disney's THE LION KING Offers Autism-Friendly Performance at Boston Opera House Today

Boston Mayor Martin J. Walsh will serve as Honorary Chairman of the event committee for the first-ever autism-friendly performance of Disney's THE LION KING at the Boston Opera House today, October 11th at 2pm, an initiative hosted by Autism Speaks, the world's leading autism science and advocacy organization, in partnership with Broadway In Boston and Disney Theatrical Productions.

Modeled after similar performances presented by TDF (Theater Development Fund) on Broadway, this performance features slight alterations in the production and theater experience to create a sensory-friendly and judgment-free environment. Broadway In Boston is working closely alongside Disney Theatrical Productions and Autism Speaks, which is expertly advising on various aspects of the development and execution of this performance. Unique elements of this production and initiative will include:

· Reduction of jarring sounds & overall intensity and volume level

· Elimination of strobe lights focused on the audience

· "Calming Area" for audience members; Trained staff & volunteers provide real-time support

· Marketing efforts exclusively directed to local autism community members

"I applaud Autism Speaks, Broadway In Boston, and Disney Theatrical Productions for making this event possible," said Mayor Walsh. "By removing some of the obstacles, these individuals and families can have access to the same opportunity everyone else has-experiencing one of Broadway's best shows at one of Boston's best theaters."

"We are thrilled to have Mayor Walsh's support of this initiative that allows 2,500 local individuals affected by autism, their families and friends to have an afternoon they will never forget," said Russ Kenn, Executive Director of the New England chapter of Autism Speaks. "As a long-time and consistent supporter of the local autism community, he has a true understanding of the issues that face those who struggle with autism and their families. We are extremely grateful to Mayor Walsh and our friends at Broadway In Boston and Disney Theatrical Productions for helping create this opportunity for our families."

"We feel strongly that the arts and live theater should be an option for everyone," said Rich Jaffe, President of Broadway In Boston. "Our main goal with an autism-friendly performance is to create a safe environment where everyone feels comfortable, supported and, most importantly, is able to be themselves. We are so proud to work alongside Autism Speaks and Disney Theatrical Productions with this initiative and truly hope that this will lead the way for future performances."

Special ticket sales and distribution have been set by Autism Speaks for the performance as 75% of the seats will be sold at a reduced price (ranging from 20-45% lower than standard rates) and 25% of the tickets will be distributed as complimentary tickets to members of the local autism community, their families and supporters by the event committee. This special pricing and complimentary ticket distribution is a result of collaboration between Autism Speaks and their sponsors, Liberty Mutual Insurance, Boston Red Sox, SynapDx and Arbella Insurance to underwrite expenses related to this performance. Tickets are now available and can be purchased through www.AutismSpeaks.org/lionking.

Disney's THE LION KING is currently playing the Boston Opera House through October 12, 2014 and is part of the 2014-2015 Lexus Broadway In Boston Series. For more information, please visit www.broadwayinboston.com. Boston is the fourth city in the country to present an autism-friendly performance of this show, joining New York, Houston and Pittsburgh.

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