This season, Walton Arts Center is offering two sensory-friendly performances of children’s theater, BRUSH Theatre’s Poli POP! And tutti frutti’s The Boy Who Cried Wolf. These performances have been adapted to incorporate special modifications for adults and children with sensory-input disorders, autism or other developmental or cognitive disability, as well as anyone who might feel uncomfortable attending a typical live theater performance.   

All patrons are welcome at these special performances, however in order to make the shows more accessible to all individuals and their families, we will make adjustments to these productions in some or all of the following ways: 

• Sound in the production will be lowered, particularly for loud or startling sounds.  

• Lights in the seating area will be dimmed rather than fully dark during the performance.  

• Patrons are allowed to speak and vocalize as they wish, as well as leave and re-enter the seating area as needed.  

• The use of mobile electronic devices are allowed during the performance if they are being used as a communication device. Photography or recording will still not be permitted.  

• Outside the theater, an activity area will be available with a live video feed of the show for patrons who may need a break. A calming corner with fidget toys and bean-bag chairs will also be available for those who need a quiet place to relax.  

• Audience members are welcome to bring any necessary food, drinks or hand fidgets into the theater.  

• A family restroom (gender-neutral) will be available for use.  

Both productions are fun opportunities to introduce theater to the young and young at heart through technology and captivating storytelling.   

In BRUSH Theatre’s Poli POP!, Poli and Pola don’t want to go to sleep. The siblings start off playing with toys in their bedroom, but then their imagination takes them on a surreal dreamlike journey full of surprise and joy. BRUSH Theatre uses incredible technology and special effects to transform the set from an empty room to distant islands, roaring seas, the Egyptian desert, busy cities, dance parties and more!  But the duo doesn’t know there’s something else lurking in the shadows…a ferocious alien monster. What will they do? Join us on Tuesday, Feb. 13 at 7 pm to find out, tickets are only $10! 

tutti frutti’s The Boy Who Cried Wolf, is inspired by Aesop’s famous fable, this is a beautifully crafted production about a boy who learns that “nobody believes a liar, even when they’re telling the truth.” Watch a gifted ensemble of actor/musicians play and sing live on stage, embodying all the delightful characters — hilarious sheep, a scary wolf or two and a village of knitters with fingers flicking and needles clicking. Enjoy this classic story in a sensory-friendly setting on Tuesday, March 5 at 7 pm, tickets are only $10! 

For more information about the shows, our sensory-friendly setting or to purchase tickets you can visit waltonartscenter.org, call 479.443.5600 weekdays 10 am until 5 pm or go in-person at the Walton Arts Center Box Office weekdays 10 am until 2 pm.