SEATS ON THE SPECTRUM Fall 2024 Pilot
Beginning October 2024, SEATS ON THE SPECTRUM will partner with three New York City theaters on a pilot program to increase neurodivergent audience participation by providing accommodations within mainstream performances.
With a particular focus on autistic audience members, the goal of SEATS is to lessen the burden for both participants and theaters. Segregated sensory-friendly audience experiences have greatly improved access and engagement; however, the rise in autism diagnoses also demands mainstream accommodations to achieve equity in an economically-sound manner.
FAQs
SEATS is designed to provide basic audience accommodations for individuals who can benefit from the support of seating near exits; ushers and theater staff trained to assist when needed; access to sensory tools; designated quieter areas; and a streamlined ticketing process.
SEATS provides easy access to sensory tools to be used by SEATS audience members, and it provides sensory warnings in advance of performances. Please note that these are not relaxed performances and aren’t intended for audiences who need content, lighting and sound accommodations.
For ticketing questions, please contact the SEATS team at the following email address: seats@lumberyard.org. All performances offering SEATS accommodations are staffed by individuals specifically trained to help if issues arise.
Each SEATS-participating theater will have a designated area away from crowds. While these areas are not fully quiet, they are significantly quieter than other parts of the theater. SEATS audience members can stay in these areas until just before showtime if they prefer to avoid the main audience arrival.
This is a decision that is made on a theater-by-theater basis. Please contact the participating theater.
SEATS holds two companion seats adjacent to each SEATS seat. If more seating is needed, please contact the box office at the participating theater.
This is up to the individual theaters, and it will be explained upon arrival. If snacks are necessary to participate, please contact the theater for specific rules. At all theaters, SEATS participants can exit the theater and re-enter as needed.
Yes! Ushers will be available to assist in leaving the theater and directing individuals to areas with a live-stream television, so nothing will be missed during audience breaks.
Letters of Support
Partner Organizations
If you have additional questions, please contact seats@lumberyard.org or call 202-427-7009.
In collaboration with
