Sensory-Friendly Accommodations
New Victory hopes to create a Sensory-Friendly experience that welcomes everyone and helps make all kids regular theatergoers.
Everyone is welcome.
We offer sensory supports at every show, as well as dedicated Sensory-Friendly performances.
Supports for Every Performance
We're committed to supporting the accessibility needs of all our patrons at all performances. Take advantage of the following offerings whenever you attend:
Sensory-Friendly Performances
At designated performances, the cast and crew make adjustments to create a welcoming and comfortable theater experience for people with autism, sensory sensitivities or anyone who may benefit from a more relaxed theater experience. Additional staff, including New Victory Teaching Artists, are present to support audience members throughout the show and during the pre- and post-show experience. They will have copies of our Social Narratives, accessibility items and knowledge of the theater to offer patrons.
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1
Modified Lighting and Sound
Sound in the production will be lowered, and staff will warn of any upcoming loud noises during the show. Lights in the seating area will be dimmed rather than fully dark during the performance.
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2
Judgment-Free, Inclusive Environment
Audience members may talk, vocalize, leave and re-enter the seating area as they wish. Patrons in need of a quiet place to relax or support items like ear defenders can visit the Cozy Zone or the Accessibility Table, located downstairs across from the lockers.
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3
More Space at Your Seats
In order to give patrons more space and make it easy to move around or exit to go downstairs, we limit how many seats are sold for Sensory-Friendly performances.
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4
Character and Story Guides
Know what to expect at the show you're coming to see with custom guides introducing the characters, story and other elements of the show.
The Jim Henson's Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock LIVE show guide will be ready before your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an autism-friendly performance and a Sensory-Friendly performance?
At the New Victory Theater, there's no difference between the two! We use the term "Sensory-Friendly performance" here, but other arts organizations and venues will refer to these performances as "autism-friendly" or "relaxed performances." At these performances, the show or venue may be modified in some ways to create a more comfortable environment for patrons with sensory sensitivities—by lowering sound and light levels, reducing startling effects or allowing the audience to move around freely. Attending these performances is a more relaxed experience because artists and audience both know that it is a judgement-free zone where all are welcome.
What should I bring to a Sensory-Friendly performance?
If your kid uses ear defenders or has a particular fidget they like best, bring them along!
Will staff have specialized training or experience working with individuals with autism spectrum disorder?
Yes. New Victory staff members have received training about neurodiversity and how to make our shows enjoyable for everyone. In addition, autism specialists are on hand at our Sensory-Friendly performances to offer assistance if needed.
About the Specialists:
Aliza Greenberg
Aliza Greenberg is a consultant focused on arts education, access and inclusion. Aliza is also the Community Outreach Coordinator at LearningSpring School, the Project Leader for Supporting Transitions with the Museum, Arts and Culture Access Consortium (MAC), and a Teaching Artist with CO/LAB Theater Group. B.A., Bryn Mawr College; Ed.M., Harvard Graduate School of Education.
Arielle Lever
Arielle Lever is a New York City-based Arts Administrator/Theater Artist/Teaching Artist, who focuses a great deal of her energy and work around accessibility in theater. She is a co-founder and Teaching Artist at CO/LAB Theater Group, a nonprofit dedicated to providing theater arts opportunities to individuals with developmental disabilities. Arielle is also a New Victory Teaching Artist, where she interfaces with a range of student populations all over the five boroughs of New York City. She often facilitates trainings and consults for companies on theater inclusion and accessibility practices.
