UNC Health Care Donates Sensory Kits for Shows at Raleigh Little Theatre

Kits to support autism-friendly performances of ‘Junie B. Jones’ and ‘Three Little Birds’

RALEIGH, N.C. – Feb. 27, 2019 – UNC Health Care will provide hundreds of sensory kits for two upcoming autism-friendly performances at Raleigh Little Theatre.

The special shows include “Junie B. Jones, the Musical!” on Saturday, March 2, at 1 p.m., and “Bob Marley’s Three Little Birds” on Saturday, March 30, at 1 p.m. The performances are designed to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for individuals with autism spectrum disorders, sensory sensitivities or other disabilities.  

Sensory kits will available as guests walk into the theater, while supplies last. The kits include a stress ball, fidget spinner and bendy stick.

In addition to the kits, Raleigh Little Theatre will make various changes during the shows, including modifying the house lights, allowing audience members to talk or move around, providing extra staff and volunteer support and designating a “Take a Break Space.”

“We applaud Raleigh Little Theatre for recognizing that some individuals need extra support to enjoy this type of family entertainment,” said Allison Zoller, program manager of the UNC Autism Research Center. “Live theater can be such a rewarding experience for all individuals, especially with minor modifications to create a welcoming environment.”

For more information on the autism-friendly performances of “Junie B. Jones, the Musical!” and “Bob Marley’s Three Little Birds,” visit raleighlittletheatre.org.

For more information on the UNC Autism Research Center, click here. The center is a new model for developing personalized interventions that improve the lives of children and adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder. The center brings together genetics, pharmacology, public health and intervention expertise at UNC to tackle autism’s greatest challenges.