Accessibility and Sensory-Friendly Performing

Ignite Theatre Company is dedicated to making theatre accessible for all audience members and increasing inclusion for those with sensory, social, physical, and cognitive disabilities.

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About Arts For All

The Arts For All program produces performances that are sensory friendly. These performances are a judgment-free environment, for anyone who might benefit from a non-traditional theatre experience, with no cost associated with attending.

To provide a supportive and welcoming environment for patrons dedicated Arts for All performances include:

- - Reductions in flashing or strobe lights
  - Modification of the house lights during the performance
  - Adapted house rules: audience members are free to talk or move during the show
  - Additional staff and volunteer support.
  - Trained cast and staff
  - Designated “Quiet Area” and “The Wiggle Section”
  - Guidance and sensory supports (fidgets & earplugs) available in the lobby before the show
  - Flexible seating
  - Pre-show meet & greet with key performers
  - Touch tour for visually impaired
  - ASL interpreters or live closed-captioning (when available)
  - Audio description services available

“Audience members are welcome to bring their own manipulatives, seat cushions, comfort objects, and extra support items to the show. Families may select their own seats, but if special assistance or a buffer seat is needed, please let our staff know in advance.”

(From the Children’s Theatre Company)

Next Arts4All Performance: The Sound of Music

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Arts4All Production of Disney’s Finding Nemo, Summer 2024

As Ignite heads into its 10th anniversary (2025), we are attempting to make the transition from patron to performer even more accessible for participants between the ages of 8-18 by offering the FIRST EVER Arts4All production of Finding Nemo. This program would represent increased accessibility but also provide an exciting partnership. Ignite is poised to be the FIRST company in Missouri to partner with The Penguin Project. From The Penguin Project, “These productions are unique, however, because young artists fill all the roles with developmental disabilities including Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, autism, intellectual disabilities, learning disabilities, visual impairment, hearing impairment, and other neurological disorders. They are joined on stage by a dedicated group of “peer mentors” – children the same age without disabilities who have volunteered to work side-by-side with them through four months of rehearsals and the final performance. By providing access to community theater, The Penguin Project demonstrates that the unique challenges of a disability should not handicap a child’s ability to participate in life’s experiences.

Established in 2004, The Penguin Project has evolved into a National program with Chapter sites throughout the United States. The program provides a supportive environment for children with disabilities to explore their creative talents. It has also demonstrated that participation in the performing arts has therapeutic value by enhancing social interaction, communication skills, self-confidence, and self-esteem. The program’s impact has reached beyond the stage of creating a social network for children with few friends and limited social opportunities.