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Sensory-Friendly ‘Nutcracker Sweets’
December 23, 2024 @ 10:30 am – 11:30 am
Experience the joy of the holiday season, tailored to meet the needs of every audience member.
Step into a world of wonder with Nutcracker Sweets, a brand new production designed to be accessible and enjoyable for everyBODY! Since 2017, Charlottesville Ballet has proudly presented “short and sweet” sensory-friendly performances, and this hour-long abridged show is perfect for audiences of all ages and abilities.
What Makes It Special:
- Short and sweet: The abridged performance is less than 60–minutes with no intermission! Experience Act II of The Nutcracker as Clara journeys to the Land of the Sweets and meets the iconic Sugar Plum Fairy.
- Sensory-Friendly Environment: Sound and lighting are adjusted to create a comfortable atmosphere for all. The theater will never be fully dark (house lights will stay dimmed throughout the performance) and all bright lights and loud sounds will be reduced.
- Judgement-free atmosphere: Patrons can move, vocalize, and express themselves freely throughout the performance.
- ASL interpreter: An interpreter will be onsite translating the entire event, from the welcome remarks, to the narrated ballet, to the adaptive dance class on stage after the performance.
- Quiet Area: A designated space will be accessible throughout the show for anyone who may need to take a break.
- Adaptive “Class with Clara”: Following the performance, join us on stage for an adaptive version of our signature “Class with Clara” event. This interactive experience allows participants and their families to engage with the Charlottesville Ballet dancers in a supportive environment. VIP Class with Clara tickets are available in select seats and all family members attend free of charge. Please note any accessibility needs in your order comments!
Click to view our SENSORY-FRIENDLY PERFORMANCE GUIDE with all the details on accessibility and what to expect when you come to see the show!
Our sensory-friendly performances are designed to be a fun and enjoyable theater experience for individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), sensory sensitivities, hearing impairments, or any other disabilities. Patrons can move, vocalize, and express themselves freely in a gentle and judgement-free atmosphere.
An ASL interpreter will be translating the entire event, and a calm space will be available throughout the show for those who need to take a break.
This event is presented by Quantum Movement Studio and supported by the Joseph & Robert Cornell Memorial Foundation, the Virginia Commission for the Arts, and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Community partners: VPM, Accessible Theatre Project, Jefferson-Madison Regional Library, VIA Centers for Neurodevelopment, and Civic Access.