BWW Jr: Autism Friendly Performances at NYMF

This month, the New York Musical Theatre Festival (NYMF) is teaming up wiht the Theatre Development Fund's Autism Theatre Initiative (ATI) to launch its first ever autism friendly series for kids. The two shows being featured are THE SNOW QUEEN and RESCUE RUE.

The shows will be performed in a supportive environment for an audience of families and friends with children or adults who are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder or other sensitivity issues.

Slight adjustments to the production may be made, including reduction of any jarring sounds or light cues. The theatre lobby will have a quiet/activity area, staffed with autism specialists, for those who need to leave their seats during the performance. Social narratives and pictures of the theares and productions designed to personalize the experience for each attendee with ASD will be available for download in advance of the performances.

"After witnessing how inclusive ATI productions are, I realized what an important initiative it is and wanted to bring it to NYMF audiences," said NYMF director of programming Mary Kate Burke. "The spirit of this community is incredible and I am delighted that this is a new offering at our festival."

As with all NYMF performances, tickets are only $25, which includes one fidget toy per seat.

THE SNOW QUEEN: Autism Friendly Performance Saturdy, July 19 at 11:00 am
The Alice Griffin Jewel Box Theatre at The Pershing Square Signature Center, 480 W 42nd St., NYC

How far would you go to save a friend? Be sprited away by this new musical adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen's fantastical coming-of-age adventure. Join Gerda on a dangerous and whimsical quest to save her best friend Kai before he is trapped forever in the Snow Queen's palace. Dare to enter a world where flowers sing, animals talk, and riddles yearn to be solved. With an original pop rock score, alluring ballads, urban steam punk flair, and the enigmatic Snow Queen, you'll soon see this is not your average bedtime story.

RESCUE RUE: Autism Friendly Performance Sunday, July 20 at 11:00 am
Ford Foundation Studio Theatre at the Pershing Square Signature Center, 480 W 42nd St., NYC

Find your happily "future after"! When a little dog named Rue wishes for a "Happily Ever After" from her Fairy Dogmother, she soon embarks on an emotional journey of self-discovery and belonging. Kicked out of her home, Rue meets new friends and enemies alike on the street and at the pound before finding her "Furever" home in NYC and realizing life is really about finding your happy beginnings, not endings! Based on a true adoption story, this family-friendly pop musical is told by a colorful cast of puppets and people.

For more information about booking tickets contact (212) 352-3101 or visit nymf.org.

The Autism Theatre Initiative can be contacted at autism@tdf.org.

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