In advance of World Autism Day on Thursday, Cineplex Entertainment has extended its popular sensory-friendly screenings program to Galaxy Cinemas in downtown Peterborough. The first sensory-friendly screening, of the Disney film Cinderella, takes place at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 4th.
The Sensory Friendly Screenings program features 2D projection, increased house lighting, lower speaker volumes, and smaller crowds. It also allows families to bring outside food into the theatre to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Developed in concert with Autism Speaks Canada, the program provides an opportunity for individuals and families living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) to enjoy new releases in a relaxed environment.
“Our goal is to make movie-going accessible to as many Canadians as possible,” says Pat Marshall of Cineplex Entertainment. “This partnership with Autism Speaks Canada provides an opportunity to see the latest family movies in a comfortable environment, at a reduced price.”
The screenings will take place during off-peak times, before theatres are open to the general public. Theatres participating in the program will also provide a nearby calm zone for families who want a break from the screening.
Along with Peterborough, there are 12 other theatres in Ontario participating in the program (the Cineplex Odeon Oshawa is the only other theatre close to the Kawarthas).
Peterborough’s first Sensory Friendly Screening takes place at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 4th, with a screening of Cinderella. Additional screenings take place on Saturday, April 18th (Home) and Saturday, May 16th (Avengers: Age of Ultron).
Titles and booking information will be announced at cineplex.com/sensoryfriendly up to two weeks in advance of each screening.
The goal of the program is to create a welcoming and lower-sensory environment that will appeal to families dealing with a broad range of disorders and disabilities. While Cineplex developed the program in concert with Autism Speaks, the special screenings are open to anyone for whom the environment is suitable (for example, children with other neurodevelopmental disorders).
Ticket prices for all patrons attending Sensory Friendly Screenings will be the current child ticket price at the participating theatre.
While most of the films shown during Sensory Friendly Screenings will be family friendly, Cineplex also plans to screen films geared toward teens and young adults.
