Sensory-Friendly Performance at Bay Street Theater

Bay Street Theater in Sag Harbor hosted its first-ever sensory-friendly performance on November 5. The theater’s current production “All Things Equal: The Life and Trials of Ruth Bader Ginsburg” was performed in the spirit of creating an inclusive community space. Sensory friendly performances are designed to welcome individuals with autism and others with sensory sensitivities by providing a comfortable theater-going experience that may be viewed and enjoyed alongside their families and friends.

“It is so important to us that we provide accessible performances to our resident company, East End Special Players, as well as others with varying needs, so the opportunity of enjoying professional theater can be available for all,” said Bay Street Theater’s Executive Director Tracy Mitchell. “While we have assisted listening devices available for audience members, and provide American Sign Language Interpreters when requested, we are constantly reviewing our accessibility practices and it is our aspiration to continue to expand upon them.

“Sensory-friendly performances are the next step in fulfilling that vision,” continued Mitchell. “With the help of our associate general manager, Stefanie Anarumo, and the generous guidance and expertise from the occupational therapy team at Advanced Occupational Therapy Services, P.C. in Sag Harbor, we were able to provide a more comfortable and ‘safe space’ for the Players and others. With support, we hope to be able to continue this again soon and often.”

“All Things Equal” was written by Rupert Holmes and it is being presented as Bay Street’s 2022 Literature Live! show with free admission offered to all school students, teachers, and administrators. The show runs through November 27. For more information visit baystreet.org.