Heart of Stark: 2 nonprofits team up to offer sensory-friendly cinema experience

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This summer, the Canton Palace Theatre is partnering with the Autism Society of Greater Akron to present its Sensory Cinema series, a theater experience tailored to patrons with sensory processing disorders and their families.

Local children and adults with sensory processing challenges can again enjoy their favorite films in a safe and comfortable environment — some able to watch a movie in a theater for the first time because of the accommodations.

During sensory film showings, the theatre provides lower sound levels, the lights are left on, dietary-sensitive offerings are available at the concession stand and all restrooms are family restrooms. In addition, all staff members, volunteers and security personnel are trained to address the specific needs of attendees.

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Recognizing the need for specific programming dedicated to children and adults with sensory processing challenges, the Canton Palace Theatre consulted community partners to better understand what would be needed to create an enjoyable movie-going experience. Sensory Cinema began as a result in 2017, and it continues to provide children and adults of all ages and disabilities with a comfortable and accepting environment to watch movies and make memories together.

Each week, the Autism Society of Greater Akron also offers a pre-movie activity for attendees. Sensory Cinema runs every Monday through Aug. 5. Doors open at 6 p.m., with showtime starting at 6:30 p.m. Admission is $2 per person and tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door.

Upcoming films include:

• "Up" – July 15
• "Home Alone" – July 22
• "Zootopia" – July 29
• "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" — Aug. 5

For the Canton Palace Theatre’s complete schedule, visit www.cantonpalacetheatre.org/calendar.

Stark Community Foundation helps individuals, families, businesses and nonprofits achieve their philanthropic goals through a variety of charitable funds and strategic initiatives. Ranked in the top 10% of community foundations in the country, the foundation and its family of donors have granted more than $250 million to nonprofits since 1963. Learn more at www.starkcf.org.