SENSORY INCLUSIVE PERFORMANCE HIGHLIGHTS THAT “IT’S OKAY TO BE DIFFERENT”

Published: Nov 2, 2022

The Mermaid Theater’s new production cleverly delivers important messages of acceptance, understanding and self-confidence. That is highlighted on both sides of the stage when the Broward Center for the Performing Arts presents a sensory-inclusive performance of It's Okay To Be Different in the Amaturo Theater on Saturday, November 5 at 3 p.m.

Three contemporary stories by New York Times bestselling author and illustrator Todd Parr come to life with Parr's signature blend of playfulness and sensitivity in this hour-long production adapted and staged for young audiences. It’s Okay to be Different is joined by The Earth Book, a sweet homage to our beautiful planet, and This is My Hair, a funny exploration of how silly hair can be and that no matter how your hair looks, you should always feel good about yourself.

To create a welcoming and supportive environment for children and adults on the autism spectrum (as well as individuals with other sensitivity issues or developmental disabilities), slight adjustments have been made to the production including reduced sound levels, no flashing or strobe lights and minimal special effects. An area adjacent to the theater has been designated as a Quiet Room with specially trained volunteers to provide audience support.

Audiences will enjoy complimentary pre-show arts and crafts provided by Young at Art Museum, and a post-show character meet & greet. In addition, helpful resources such as a video about what to expect when attending a live performance are available on the event page at the BrowardCenter.org.

The Broward Center's sensory-inclusive programming is made possible through the generous support of The Batchelor Foundation, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital, and The Taft Foundation with special thanks to UM-NSU CARD for their in-kind support.

Early bird tickets for this event start at $10.00 with $5 lap tickets for children 12 months of age and younger.

It’s Okay to Be Different is also presented in two school day and two weekend performances to which no modifications have been made. JM Family Enterprises Smart Stage Matinee performances are Friday, November 4 at 10 and 11:30 a.m. with tickets at $10 and $3 lap tickets for children 12 months of age and younger. Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital presents the Family Fun Series performances of this title on Saturday, November 5 at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. with tickets that include pre-show activities at $16 in advance and $18 the day of the performance with $3 lap tickets for children 12 months of age and younger.

The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located at 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. For more information visit BrowardCenter.org, like us on Facebook at Facebook.com/BrowardCenter and Facebook.com/BrowardCenterEducation, follow us on Twitter and Instagram @BrowardCenter, subscribe to our channel at Youtube.com/user/BrowardCenter and join the conversation with #BrowardCenter.

The Broward Center 2022/2023 season is supported by the Broward Performing Arts Foundation. AutoNation, Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau, Spirit and Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center are proud sponsors of the Broward Center. Programs are also sponsored in part by the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Arts and Culture, the Florida Council on Arts and Culture, and the National Endowment of the Arts.

About The Broward Center for the Performing Arts

One of America’s premier performing arts venues, the Broward Center for the Performing Arts presents more than 700 performances each year to more than 700,000 patrons, showcasing a wide range of exciting cultural programming and events. Guest experiences at the Broward Center include the all-inclusive Spirit Club Level, the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center Intermezzo Lounge, special events in the Huizenga Pavilion, waterfront dining at Marti’s New River Bistro and innovative classes and workshops for all ages at the Rose Miniaci Arts Education Center. With one of the largest arts-in-education programs in the United States, the Broward Center serves more than 130,000 students annually. The Broward Performing Arts Foundation, Inc. receives and maintains funds to sustain, develop and secure the future of the Broward Center. The Broward Center for the Performing Arts is located at 201 SW Fifth Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. For more information, visit BrowardCenter.org.