Editor:
A great big thank you to the team at the Raven’s Cry Theatre for offering sensory friendly movie screenings on select feature films. Sensory friendly movies offer a modified experience to accommodate those with sensory sensitivities. Theaters typically keep the house lights on or dimmed, reducing the stark contrast to the bright screen. The volume is lowered to create a less overwhelming soundscape.
The Raven’s Cry Theatre reduces scent and noise stimuli by popping popcorn ahead of time and they also offer seating options to accommodate different preferences.
Who benefits from a sensory friendly screening?
Children, adults and families living with individuals with sensory sensitivities: people with autism, ADHD, PTSD, anxiety, or even hearing loss can benefit from the adjusted audio and visual elements and additional stimuli reductions.
I am so thrilled to see that local amenities are becoming more and more accessible for individuals with diverse needs and their families. As a community, we have a collective duty to ensure that all our citizens have access to and feel included in all aspects of community life – enjoying a movie with family and friends “sensory friendly” style is a great first step.
Katja Strauss, Davis Bay
