First LI theater to offer regular sensory-sensitive shows

The CM Performing Arts Center in Oakdale has been a hub for not just creativity, but inclusivity. In their most recent endeavor for inclusion, CMPAC held its first-ever sensory sensitive show during the run of “Jersey Boys” this spring.

Partnering with Christine Kerimian-Fitzgerald of Love Fitz Productions as sensory accessibility coordinator, CMPAC has given a strong position to a member of the arts community that she herself has sought provide for her audiences.

“As someone on the autism spectrum herself, Christine brings a unique and deeply personal perspective to the needs of the community. We felt strongly that someone ‘walking in the shoes’ of the individuals we were trying to accommodate had to be at the table where decisions were being made. Her guidance helped shape everything from performance adjustments to audience accommodations,” said Marc Holid-Ausset, chief executive officer of CMPAC.

Holid-Ausset cited that theatres across the country have worked to create sensory-friendly experiences primarily geared toward children on the spectrum.

“While that is incredibly important, we also recognized something that often gets overlooked: those children grow up. They become teenagers, adults, couples, parents, and lifelong theatre lovers who still deserve the opportunity to experience live performance in a way that feels safe, welcoming, and accessible to them,” said Holid-Ausset.

A central tenet of CMPAC, often referred to as “The heart of Long Island theater,” is bringing community together.

“We believe the arts should be accessible to everyone, regardless of sensory needs or neurodiversity. As a nonprofit community theatre, part of being of service to our community means listening to what people need and adapting so more people can participate comfortably. We wanted to create an environment where guests who may have previously felt excluded from live theatre could finally feel like the space was built with them in mind, rather than asking them to adapt to a traditional theatre environment,” said Holid-Ausset

From inception, CMPAC sought the advice of the very audience they wanted to serve.

“The productions are thoughtfully adapted to reduce sensory overload while still maintaining the integrity and excitement of live theatre.”

The goal is to create a theater experience where everyone can feel comfortable, supported, and able to enjoy the performance in their unique way.

Accommodations include:

• Lower sound levels to provide a more comfortable listening experience;
• Gradual lighting changes to avoid sudden shifts and sunglasses are recommended for added comfort;
• Content and sensory advisories that will be announced moments before  intense or overwhelming scenes;
• For all shows, a breakout room will be accessible at all points of the performance where the show will continue on a television screen;
• A 360-degree view of the theater space to ease anxiety around transitioning to new spaces.
• Destigmatization of movement  and vocalizations as guests are welcome to move, vocalize and take breaks whenever needed.
• For all shows, encouragement to bring sensory tools and comfort items that assist regulation.

After the first sensory-sensitive show in May, audience reactions were “overwhelmingly positive and deeply emotional.”

“One story that really stayed with us involved a middle-aged couple with sensory sensitivities who told us they had never been able to experience a live show together before. For them, attending one of our sensory sensitive performances became a meaningful date night experience they never thought they would have. That’s exactly why this work matters.”