This year, Roxey Ballet will present a Sensory-Friendly performance of its annual extravaganza: Tchaikovsky's "Nutcracker". This acclaimed 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. 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", says Mark Roxey, Founding Director of Roxey Ballet.
Adaptations to the performance include lower sound levels, elimination of special effects and special lighting, with house lights on at about 20%. 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 theatre experiences increase social skills for students with autism. Our sensory-friendly performance allows everyone to experience ballet in a comfortable, nurturing, and accepting environment," says Hailey Glover, Director of Education and Outreach.
Roxey Ballet's "Nutcracker" production is a joyous and magical way to begin the holiday season. This year's cast features over 80 young artists across New Jersey and Pennsylvania performing alongside the company's roster of world-class artists. The December 3rd performance aligns with International Day of Persons with Disabilities and celebrates the accessibility of dance for all.
The performance will be held on December 3rd, 2016 at 2 PM at The College of New Jersey's beautiful Kendall Theater.? All tickets for this performance are $20.00. For more information, visit
www.roxeyballet.org.
(Photo Credit: Roxey Ballet)
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