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Playhouse Square presenting sensory-friendly performance of 'The Lion King'

Posted at 7:59 PM, Feb 22, 2019
and last updated 2019-02-22 19:59:19-05

CLEVELAND — The Playhouse Square is presenting the first-ever sensory-friendly performance of a touring Broadway show in Cleveland.

The theater is presenting a special performance of Disney’s "The Lion King" for individuals with autism spectrum disorders, sensory sensitivities and other social and cognitive challenges.

The sensory-friendly performance of "The Lion King" will be slightly modified to accommodate the audience.

Loud and sudden noises will be reduced and strobe lights focused in the audience will be removed. In addition to the removing strobe lighting, the house lights will remain on at a low level throughout the show.

“We want everyone to be able to experience the transformative power of live theater, especially with their families,” President & COO Gina Vernaci said in a press release.

Playhouse Square will provide sensory objects including fidgets, earplugs and noise-canceling ear-muffs to guests and will have trained staff and volunteers on-hand providing assistance.

Members of the audience are able to stand, move, talk and make noise, and are encouraged to bring their own comfort and support items to the theater to use during the performance.

This special performance of "The Lion King" will take place on Saturday, Aug. 31 at 1:30 p.m.

Tickets for the performance start at $39 are on sale now at the theater's website.