The Valentine Theater is providing a way for individuals with autistic needs to enjoy performances. In collaboration with ProMedica Ebeid Children’s Hospital Finnegan Family Autism Center, the Valentine is planning on a Sensory Program that consists of putting on a series of shows catered to individuals who may require relaxed environments, while still enjoying what the Valentine has to offer.
Creating a relaxing environment
Plans for the series include dimming the lights down to at least 50 percent during shows, giving audience cues to alert them about loud noises, and the option to get up and walk around whenever they want. Plans also include implementing a relaxed room with comfortable couches and chairs, manipulative objects, and a television with a remote control so audience members won’t miss the performance.
“After speaking with the Finnegan Center, they told us it may be beneficial to have a designated area where people can go to relax if things become too jarring,” says Kelby Sodeman, development coordinator with the Valentine Theatre. The 20’ by 20’ room, also known as the Founders Room, serves two purposes – a meeting room for staff during business hours and a relaxed environment room when needed during performances, and is located directly off the grand lobby. A reservation will not be needed and audience members can enter and exit the room as needed throughout the performance.
Putting the wheels in motion
The idea of the Sensory Program was born in 2019 by way of the Valentine staff who began noticing the need for audience members who might need a more relaxed environment. “We immediately started researching other venues around the country and found they were implementing these rooms,” says Jori Jex, executive director at the Valentine Theatre. She and Sodeman began making phone calls to these other venues and learned at least 80 percent of volunteers and 100 percent of the staff needed to be trained to assist individuals who might present autistic signs.
“So many of our volunteers are retired nurses, teachers or healthcare professionals, so I think when we go for the training, our volunteers will take this very well and appreciate it,” says Jex. Volunteers will be required to complete and test out of one hour of training per person, and staff members will be required to complete four hours. The training is good for two years.
Jex says the Theatre is “very early in the process” and hopes to get the series, and the room, up and running later this fall while they continue to gather funding. “Our ultimate goal is to make sure that people feel comfortable coming to the Valentine, that it’s a part of their family life.”
Looking ahead
Tickets for the Sensory Program shows will hover in the $12-$14 dollar range, according to Sodeman, and may drop if they receive enough funding. If you would like more information on providing funds, contact Sodeman at ksodeman@valentinetheatre.com.
When the series begins, anyone can log on and see images of the shows — so they know what to expect — as well as a list of upcoming performances. Masking is still required regardless of vaccination status, and the Theatre will update the policy as needed.
