A Sensory-Friendly Performance is a live theatre production for people with a variety of sensory input disorders. Our sensory-friendly performance will be accessible to people on the autism spectrum, who have anxiety, or other cognitive disabilities. Goodspeed staff and performers have carefully modified the performance with this audience in mind.

During Sensory-Friendly Performances, audience members can freely leave their seats as needed during the performance, house lights will remain somewhat illuminated, sound levels will be lowered, the use of flashing lights will be reduced, and special educational materials will be made available to patrons prior to the performance. Goodspeed will make numerous other subtle modifications to the regular theatre experience to make everyone feel as comfortable as possible during the performance. There will be several safe spaces for audience members to leave the show and relax as needed. Additionally, trained Goodspeed staff and volunteers will be present to accommodate the needs of this specific population. There is no expectation that the audience will be quiet during the performance. It will be a completely judgment-free zone!    

All tickets for this special performance are $12 each. To purchase tickets, please call Morgan at 860.615.0318 or email mdumark@goodspeed.org.

This performance caters to people of all ages with sensory input disorders, their families, and caretakers. If it is difficult or impossible for an individual to attend live performance because of their sensory challenges, this is an excellent opportunity to experience the magic of live musical theatre in a friendly, judgment-free environment. Goodspeed strives to provide a carefree and fun experience for everyone involved. We are prepared for loud reactions to the show from this audience. We also understand that some audience members will need to leave or move around the space during the show. This is perfectly fine! All children must be accompanied by an adult while in the theatre. Again, we encourage caretakers and family members of people with special needs to attend.

Tickets for this performance are not available to the general public. We encourage caretakers and family members of people with sensory input disorders to attend. The production will be changed to fit their needs and the environment will be quite different. Regular Goodspeed patrons should book into other performances so we can keep seats available for this special population and their families.

The script will not be altered.

Goodspeed offers a number of pre-show resources to help people with sensory input disorders prepare to see the show. A plot synopsis featuring things to look out for throughout the performance and a social story guide is available here. They can be downloaded and printed to look through before the show. Additionally, we can arrange tours of the theatre before you come to the performance. If you are interested in a tour, please contact Morgan at 860.615.0318. There will be a “meet your seat” experience an hour before the performance begins and attendees are welcome to come early to see their seat, view the set on stage, and meet our friendly staff and some cast members. 

Yes, there is elevator access to the orchestra level at The Goodspeed and a ramp at The Terris Theatre. Please inform the box office of any mobility issues.

Yes, attendees are encouraged to bring fidget toys and edibles, but we ask that all electronic devices including phones and tablets be turned off during the performance. We will have complimentary fidgets and earplugs available at the performance.

Yes, you are welcome to leave your seat at any time you want. Goodspeed staff will be available to direct you wherever you need to go. Please look for people in blue shirts and feel free to ask questions. These folks will be glad to help you return to your seat whenever you wish.

Yes, we will post clips from the show and send out links before your performance. Stay tuned!

Approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes including a 15-minute intermission.

• Word of mouth - talk about the performance to friends, clients, and parents
• Print a poster for your office, school or organization. DOWNLOAD
• Include information in your newsletter. If you need graphics or other promotional materials, please contact Katie Desjardins at kdesjardins@goodspeed.org or 860.615.0322

Please contact Morgan Dumark-McNamee at 860.615.0318 or email her at mdumark@goodspeed.org.