Home Made Theater Adds Sensory-Friendly Performance of “Curious Incident of The Dog in The Night-Time”

Saratoga’s Home Made Theater will soon present a production of “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time,” which will offer their first ever sensory-friendly performance on Wednesday night May 4.

The story concerns a mystery surrounding the death of a neighbor’s dog that is investigated by young Christopher Boone, who is on the autism spectrum, and his relationships with his parents and school mentor. Adapted from the novel, the play tells the story as a play-within-a-play.

Many theatrical productions contain imagery and/or sustained flashing lights that may affect
those sensitive to such sensations, including those with photosensitive epilepsy or those individuals on the autism spectrum. Sensory-friendly productions allow patrons with sensory sensitivity to safely
enjoy live theater by making appropriate changes to lights, sound, imagery and pace without
affecting the story line or artistic presentation of the production.

Additional accommodations to the physical environment of the theater, including permitting
stress balls, fidget toys, earplugs and noise-canceling headphones in the theater assist those
that benefit by them. Designated quiet rooms and areas are also provided for patrons who find
the live theater experience upsetting or too intense.

“We are extremely proud of our ability to bring this fine production to the sensory sensitive community here in the Saratoga area,” said HMT’s Board of Directors President Eric Fenton. “Bringing the
joy of live theater in an appropriate setting for every member of our audience fulfills our
mission of entertainment in particularly gratifying way – while we are always proud of the productions we put forth, this effort to include families who would otherwise find attendance uncomfortable truly
underscores our commitment to a quality comfortable theater experience for all.”

Performers, production staff and volunteers are trained in expectations and the appropriate
responses to a unique audience. It is all designed to provide a safe, non-judgmental
environment created by an audience of people with similar experiences.

“The professional guidance we received to make this production sensory-friendly was met with enthusiasm by our board, staff and volunteers and we look forward to this being just the first of many such productions,” said HMT’s Business Manager Erin Nicole Harrington.

Tickets may be purchased for the May 4 performance in addition to the rest of the run (April 29, 30 and May 1, 6,7 and 8) by clicking here.