Relaxed Sensory Inclusive Performances

About Relaxed and Sensory Inclusive Performances

The Hobby Center is committed to deepening understanding of our shared humanity and creating a safe, welcoming experience for all audience members.  The 2024-25  Relaxed and Sensory Inclusive Performance Series reinstates the Hobby Center’s commitment to ongoing performance offerings outside of our Sensory Inclusive Broadway Productions. Each performance offers a unique opportunity that allows all audience members to engage and experience the production in the way that best meets their needs. Apollo Chamber Players will incorporate audience participation and Ars Lyrica’s percussion and voice program offers a heightened sensory experience with support devices such as noise canceling headphones available. Open Dance Project models a fully inclusive environment incorporating American Sign Language Interpretation and other accessibility tools into their performance.  As always, each of the performances will offer the accommodations listed below that the Hobby Center is committed to providing for all Relaxed and Sensory Inclusive Performances.   

Upcoming Relaxed and Sensory Inclusive Performances:

• Apollo Chamber Players: Musical Melting Pot World Tour; Sunday, October 27, 11 a.m.
• Ars Lyrica Houston: Orígenes; Sunday, February, 9, 1 p.m.
• Open Dance Project: The Wonderful Wizard of Oz; Sunday, April 13, 12:20 p.m. 

Join us for a season of Sensory Inclusive Performances

House rules are relaxed and include accommodations such as:

• Lower sound levels, especially for startling or intense sounds.
• Theatre lights on at a low level throughout the performance.
• Designated quiet and activity areas outside the chamber in the lobby areas.
• Trained volunteers and professionals on hand during the entire performance.
• Sensory supports (fidgets, earplugs, noise-canceling ear-muffs) available in the lobby before the show.
• Online and printed guidance materials about the show experience.
• Audience members are welcome to bring their own manipulatives (e.g., blocks), seat cushions, comfort objects and extra support items to the show.
• Small electronic devices such as phones and iPads are allowed for self-soothing. Please be considerate of those around you by using headphones or muting the sound so as not to distract from the performance.
• You will be allowed to exit and re-enter the theater chamber (we encourage patrons to reserve aisle seats if they anticipate needing to leave the theater)

Previsit Materials

Hobby Center Social Story

A social story titled “I’m Going to the Theatre” is available to help prepare for attending a performance at the Hobby Center. Social stories for specific productions will be made available at least two weeks prior to the performance.

Special Preshow Visit

A preshow visit and tour of the theatre can be arranged in the weeks prior to a performance you will be attending. You can walk through the lobbies and audience chamber, find your seat location and familiarize yourself with the location of restrooms, concessions and other facilities. To schedule a preshow visit, please contact Accessibility Services at [email protected] or (713) 315-2510.