Trinity Rep Creates Sensory Friendly Performance of A Christmas Carol

Curt Columbus, Richard L. Bready Artistic Director Michael Gennaro, Executive Director 201 Washington Street Providence Rhode Island 02903 www.trinityrep.com 

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 3, 2013 PRESS CONTACT: Myah Shein, Public Relations and Advertising Manager • 401-521-1100 ext. 226, mshein@trinityrep.com

TRINITY REP CREATES SENSORY-FRIENDLY PERFORMANCE OF A CHRISTMAS CAROL Sound, lighting and experience adapted for sensitivities - Saturday November 9th at 2PM

Providence, RI: Trinity Rep proudly announces the addition of a sensory-friendly performance of Charles Dickens with their annual presentation of his classic tale of A Christmas Carol, as adapted by Adrian Hall and Richard Cumming, presented by Cardi’s Furniture with supporting sponsor Amica Insurance. The sensory-friendly adaptation of the show will be held on Saturday, November 9 at 2:00PM and is sponsored by The Hearst Foundations. Catering to both adults and children with sensitivities, this modified show fits the needs of individuals with autism spectrum disorders and other cognitive and physical disabilities. Trinity Rep's A Christmas Carol is a timeless tale of forgiveness and hope that earns rave reviews from audiences and critics year after year. Tickets for this performance are on sale now and by phone at (401) 351-4242 and in person at the theater’s box office. All seats for this performance are $22.

“This sensory-friendly performance of A Christmas Carol is an opportunity for families to go to the theater without anxiety or fear of judgment,” explains Jordan Butterfield, Education Programs Manager, “Many parents and caretakers struggle to find events like this one and we are so proud to offer it here at Trinity Rep. The lights will be up in the audience, allowing people to move freely and safely. Loud sounds and harsh stage lights will be softened for sensitive ears. Most importantly, the audience will be filled with other families who have similar challenges. “

Butterfield expands, "At Trinity Rep, we understand that not every audience member can come to a play and sit quietly in their seat. A designated safe area in the lobby provides a break area and families can be reseated at any time. During the show, we encourage the use of headphones or fidget toys - anything that will make the experience more comfortable for the individual. Additionally we provide social stories and even an opportunity to “Meet Your Seat” an hour before the performance with our trained staff."

In addition to the inaugural sensory-friendly performance, Trinity Rep has a dedicated education program for children with autism spectrum disorders and other cognitive and disabilities called TRAIN (Trinity Rep Active Imagination Network). This program uses theater as a means for building confidence, establishing tools for communication, and social skills. TRAIN works with The Autism Project, Bradley Hospital, Hasbro Partial Hospitalization Unit, and Seven Hills RI.

"Part of Trinity Rep's mission to make theater accessible to everyone, regardless of their background or ability level," says Curt Columbus, The Richard L. Bready Artistic Director. "A Christmas Carol tells the story of a man who has closed himself off to the world, who finds that it opens back up to him when learns the importance of empathy and understanding. This lesson remains timely, year after year, and its meaning is particularly important to us as we undertake this initiative. We are grateful to the generous sponsorship of The Hearst Foundations in helping us make this program a reality for local families this holiday season. "

Trinity Rep’s A Christmas Carol is presented by Cardi’s Furniture along with supporting sponsor Amica Insurance. Trinity Rep’s 50th Anniversary season is sponsored by NBC 10, with supporting sponsors Cox Media, Rhode Island Monthly and RISCA. TRINITY REPERTORY COMPANY The State Theater of Rhode Island, Trinity Repertory Company is now celebrating its 50th Anniversary Season. Since its founding in 1963, Trinity Repertory Company has been one of the most respected regional theaters in the country.

Featuring the last permanent resident acting company in America, Trinity Rep presents a balance of world premiere, contemporary, and classic works for an estimated annual audience of approximately 145,000. In its 50-year history, the theater has produced 62 world premieres, mounted national and international tours, and, through its MFA program, trained hundreds of new actors and directors. This season marks the 46th year of Project Discovery, Trinity Rep's pioneering educational outreach program. Last season, Trinity Rep’s educational programs reached over 16,000 Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut students through matinees as well as in-school residencies and workshops.

Brown University/Trinity Rep offers professional training for actors and directors in a three-year MFA program. Trinity Rep's 50th Anniversary 2013-2014 season continues with the New England premiere of Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike by Christopher Durang, Lionel Bart’s Oliver!, Intimate Apparel by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Lynn Nottage, the world premiere of Veronica Meadows by Stephen Thorne and A Lie of the Mind by Sam Shepard. For more information, call the box office at (401) 351-4242 or visit Trinity Rep's website at www.trinityrep.com.

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