Sensory Friendly Performances of Erth's DINOSAUR ZOO Set for QPAC in January

The Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) and Erth Visual & Physical Inc. in partnership with Autism Queensland and Vision Australia are proud to present two specially adapted performances of Erth's Dinosaur Zoo in the Cremorne Theatre on Tuesday 13 January 2015.

On Tuesday 13 January the 9.30am (Autism Queensland) and 12.00pm (Vision Australia) performances have been modified to assist children and their carers to enjoy the exciting and unique experience of Erth's Dinosaur Zoo.

These performances involve adapting the audience environment and providing pre-theatre preparatory activities for people with sensory, social, or learning difficulties in order to help those people understand and anticipate what might happen during the performance.

QPAC's Chief Executive Mr John Kotzas said QPAC is dedicated to being welcoming, accessible and inclusive for the widest possible audience.

"At QPAC we are committed to curating a balanced program that speaks to a wide audience. Part of this is acknowledging that people with sensory and social difficulties may require an adapted experience at performing arts events.

"In 2014 QPAC presented two sensory friendly performances, one during our Out of the Box Festival for Children 8 Years and Under and one working in conjunction with Disney for The Lion King.

"These performances were in high demand from parents and carers of children with sensory, social, or learning difficulties and we received extremely positive feedback from those who attended.

"We believe that the arts should reflect our community. Engaging people through live performance is our mission and we actively encourage the whole community to participate in the arts whether as a performer on stage or in the audience.

"Our staff work closely with experts to create space for our audiences and make modifications that accommodate all people and are practical and thoughtful" said Mr Kotzas.

Autism Queensland CEO Penny Beeston said families of children with autism will often avoid places with a lot of people and crowds as children can easily become overwhelmed.

"This may lead others to think a child is not reacting appropriately to an experience, either over-reacting or being 'rude', which is stressful for both the child and the parent or carer.

"This makes something like a Sensory Friendly performance of Erth's Dinosaur Zoo so wonderful.

"Not only do the kids get a great day out, the parents and carers can chat with others, swap stories and realise that they are not alone."

Since the company's conception in 1990, Erth Visual & Physical Inc. continually create original live theatre, inspiring audiences with their unique and dynamic vision. Erth have ensured the company remains at the forefront of new performance practice and Erth's Dinosaur Zoo is no exception.

The two specially adapted performances for Erth's Dinosaur Zoo are on sale now via qpac.com.au or call 07 3840 7466. If carers or parents have any questions surrounding the specifics of the performances please call 07 3840 7466.

Suitable for children aged 5+ and their families.

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