County to Host Sensory-Friendly Performance
of ‘The Nutcracker’ at Bardavon 1869 Opera House
Free ThinkDIFFERENTLY event on Dec. 8th celebrates holiday classic
Poughkeepsie … Dutchess County invites residents of all abilities and their families to a free, sensory sensitive performance of the holiday classic ballet, “The Nutcracker,” presented by the New Paltz Ballet Theatre. The show will take place at the Bardavon 1869 Opera House in Poughkeepsie on Friday, December 8th, starting at 6 p.m. Seating is limited, and reservations are required online at dutchessny.gov/nutcracker.
County William F.X. O’Neil said, “The holiday season is a beautiful time of year and should be enjoyed by all. We thank the Bardavon for partnering with us to offer this inclusive sensory friendly event and once again be able to bring joy and entertainment to families and residents of all abilities.”
The show will be a “no-hush” performance meant to foster an informal, non-judgmental atmosphere where audience members can experience and respond to the performance in their own way. The Bardavon will adjust both the lighting and sound to make the experience more enjoyable for those on the autism spectrum or who experience sensory concerns.
For additional details, residents can view the event flyer online.
The Nutcracker performance is the third sensory sensitive event the county has held in partnership with the Bardavon this year. In March, storyteller David Gonzalez put on a live storytelling performance of “Cuentos” which introduced the audience to the world of Latino literature and culture and in October, the audience enjoyed a screening of Halloween movie classic Hocus Pocus.
Since its inception in 2015, the “ThinkDIFFERENTLY” initiative has sought to change the way individuals, businesses, organizations and communities relate to individuals with special needs. More information about Dutchess County’s efforts to “ThinkDIFFERENTLY,” as well as a calendar of upcoming inclusive events throughout the County, is available at thinkdifferently.net.
