““The power of art can break the shackles that bind and divide human beings.”
-Daisaku Ikeda”
Arts Inclusion Specialist
What is an Arts Inclusion Specialist?
As an arts inclusion specialist, I work with arts organizations and theatre companies to create inclusive opportunities for the neurodiverse community and the arts. This can range from curriculum development, to family outreach, to facilitating professional development, to creating sensory-friendly performances and arts programming. My services evaluate, develop and integrate inclusivity into your company’s strategic plan, as well as patron and donor requests.
There is an immense need for more sensory-friendly, inclusive and accessible programming in the the world of the arts. In order for these initiatives to be sustainable and impactful, I empower your staff with evidence-based education, tools, resources and community connections needed to create accessible experiences.
What is a Sensory-Friendly Performance?
A sensory-friendly performance is dedicated to creating a more welcoming space for individuals with sensory-input disorders including autism spectrum disorder. There are modifications made throughout the theatre’s physical space that create a friendly and supportive environment, encouraging patrons to experience the magic of theatre in their own way. Families, friends and caregivers of individuals with sensory input disorders are always encouraged to attend.
Examples of Sensory-Friendly Projects
Examples of Sensory-Friendly Supplemental Materials
Know Before You Go Video!
Greater Boston Stage’s Young Company Alum Michael Gravante walks you through attending a Sensory-Friendly performance at GBSC
Sample pages from A Christmas Celtic Sojourn’s fully customized Social Narrative created to help prepare patrons attending the Sensory-Friendly performance.
Sample of fully customized pre-performance supplemental material.
Page 1 of the Character Guide created specifically for A Miracle on 34th Street’s Sensory-Friendly Performance at Greater Boston Stage Company.
Sample of fully customized pre-performance supplemental material.
Page 1 of Performance Guide created specifically for A Christmas Celtic Sojourn’s Sensory-Friendly Performance.
Related Experience
The Young Company of Greater Boston Stage 2019 Summer Festival Program
Arts Inclusion Specialist, Greater Boston Stage Company, Stoneham, MA
Manage all winter, spring and summer festival young company members enrolled in Overture, Act 1, Act 2 or Act 3 who have neurodiverse emotional, physical or mental needs ranging from mild to severe (ages 6-22).
Model, educate and train faculty and staff on current best practices regarding classroom management, person first language, and inclusivity of neurodiverse community.
Establish and facilitate communication with parents, student and teachers in order to create the least restrictive environment for students.
Consultant for structural and functional improvement, modifications, and partnerships to enhance theatre accessibility.
Project manager for GBSC’s first sensory-friendly performance of Tiny Tim’s Christmas Carol in 2018, and second sensory-friendly performance of Miracle on 34th Street in 2019.
Collaborate with Director of Education and Managing Director to help create, maintain and grow GBSC’s sensory-friendly programming.
The cast, crew and creative team of A Christmas Celtic Sojourn
Project Manager, A Christmas Celtic Sojourn, A Celtic Sojourn, GBH Radio
Created, managed and launched A Christmas Celtic Sojourn premiere sensory-friendly performance.
Developed all digital and printed resources, facilitated front-of-house and box office inclusivity training, recruited support from local expert organizations to support guest experience.
Artwork for Nomad Americana 2018
Special Education Consultant, Fresh Ink Theatre Company, Boston, MA
Created and facilitated professional development for actors and creative development team regarding neurodiverse diagnoses discussed and portrayed in the play.
Coached actors on establishing distinctive characteristics to create an authentic portrayal using user experts visits and research material.