Autism- and Sensory-Friendly Shows in NYC to Book Now

For families affected by autism or sensory sensitivities, going to see a show or theater production can seem impossible. The good news is many top venues in NYC are now trying to be more accessible and inclusive. Here we round up the best autism- and sensory-friendly shows for the 2018-2019 season at New York City theaters and venues. The list includes Broadway shows, kids’ theater and music, the circus, and those famous blue men!
     

TDF

TDF is a fantastic nonprofit organization with the aim of bringing the performing arts to everyone, regardless of their special needs. Its pioneering autism-friendly season of Broadway shows is now in its eighth year. Each show is performed in a fully supportive environment, with adaptions to noise and light where possible. Fully staffed quiet and play areas are provided in the lobby for anyone who needs to leave their seats. Tickets sell out quickly and can only be purchased via tdf.org/autism. Sign up early to get alerts when the sensory-friendly show’s tickets go on sale (typically four to six weeks before the show’s date), at a discounted price of $55-$80. These are full-length Broadway shows, so may not be suitable for younger kids.     

The Lion King
When: Sunday, Sept. 29, 1pm 
Where: The Minskoff Theatre, 200 W. 45th St., Times Square Theater District
Ages: 6 and older
What: The iconic, award-winning musical with music by Elton John and lyrics by Tim Rice.
    

FROZEN: the Musical
When: Sunday, Nov. 17, 1pm
Where: St. James Theatre, 246 W. 44th St., Times Square Theater District.
Ages: 8 and older
What: The Broadway version of the Disney movie you know and love features new songs as well as your favorites.

Wicked
When: Sunday, Feb. 2, 2020 1pm
Where: Gershwin Theatre, 222 W. 51st St., Times Square Theater District
Ages: 6 and older
What: The Broadway sensation that looks into what happened in the Land of Oz from a reimagined angle.

Harry Potter and the Cursed Child
When: Sunday, March 1, 2020 Part 1 at 1pm and Part 2 at 6:30pm
Where: Lyric Theatre, 213 W 42nd St., Times Square Theater District
Ages: 10 and older
What: The eighth story in the Harry Potter series and the first official Harry Potter story to be presented on stage. Held in two parts.

Aladdin
When: Sunday, May 3, 2020 1pm
Where: The New Amsterdam Theatre, 14 W. 42nd St., Times Square Theater District
Ages: 6 and older
What: The award-winning show about a genie and a magical lamp (and other things).
  

Autism Speaks

This nonprofit has partnered with two big shows this fall to offer special adapted productions. It also has a national calendar of autism-friendly events on its website, which is a great resource.  

Big Apple Circus
When: Saturday, Oct. 26, 11am
Where: Damrosch Park, 60 Lincoln Center Plaza, Upper West Side
Ages: All
What: The famous circus will come back to Lincoln Center—and for the first time with a female ringmaster! This show will feature modifications to sound and lighting, a calming/break out area, trained staff, fidgets, signage, and earplugs. Information about the show is available before you go.
Tickets: $45 and up
    

RELATED: Find services and programs for children with autism
   

The New Victory Theater

One of the first venues to offer autism-friendly shows every season, this children’s theater offers lots of support to parents and kids at performances. There are break out zones, trained staff, show information, family bathrooms, help with transitions, and fidget toys. Tickets: $25; visit newvictory.org or call 646-223-3010 for more information. 209 W. 42nd St., Times Square Theater District.

42 FT - a Menagerie of Mechanical Marvels: Sensory-Friendly
When: Saturday, Dec. 14, 7pm
Ages: 5 and older
What: A breathtaking and jolly circus show with lighting and sound adaptations