Pittsburgh Cultural Trust offers autism-friendly performance of Disney’s ‘The Lion King’
Pittsburgh will serve as the third city in the country to present an autism-friendly performance of Disney’s “The Lion King.”
The special performance is scheduled for 2 p.m. Sept. 21 at the Benedum Center and will be tailored to the needs of adults and children on the autism spectrum.
“Theater productions typically require audience members to sit still in the dark and experience sudden, loud noises and music,” Marilyn Hoyson, chief operating officer at The Watson Institute, said in a press release. “While this atmosphere is enjoyable to most attendees, it may be difficult for children with special needs, especially those on the autism spectrum.
“The accommodations to this performance in a relaxed, friendly environment will make all the difference for the children and their families to enjoy it to the best of their abilities,” Hoyson said. “Kudos to the Pittsburgh Cultural Trust and Disney Theatrical Productions for making this experience available to a Pittsburgh audience.”
Modeled after similar performances presented by the Theater Development Fund on Broadway and The Hobby Center for the Performing Arts in Houston, this performance will provide a friendly and supportive environment for the audience, according to a press release. Slight adjustments to the production will be implemented, including the reduction of jarring sounds and the elimination of strobe lights focused into the audience.
The Benedum lobby will offer quiet spaces and activity areas for families, while trained staff and volunteers will provide encouragement and assistance to patrons.
“The Pittsburgh Cultural Trust remains committed to making theater and the arts accessible to all audiences and is proud to underwrite all tickets for this special performance, making it affordable to patrons on the spectrum,” Rona Nesbit, Pittsburgh Cultural Trust’s executive vice president, said in the release. “Everyone deserves the opportunity to enjoy this world-class production, and we will continue to direct attention to matters of inclusion and accessibility.”