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Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre is proud to offer a sensory-friendly performance of The Nutcracker for children and adults with ASD and other sensory sensitivities, different abilities, or special needs. Read more for information about accommodations and logistics.

A winter wonderland awaits at Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker! It’s Christmas Eve in turn-of-the-century Pittsburgh when a mysterious gift sparks a wondrous adventure. Journey to a Land of Enchantment filled with swirling snowflakes, waltzing flowers and exciting dances set to Tchaikovsky’s glorious score. Five lavish scenes, dozens of dancers and over 150 costumes make this one of Pittsburgh’s most cherished holiday traditions.

TICKETS WILL BE MAILED 2 WEEKS BEFORE THE PRODUCTION!

What makes it “sensory-friendly?” These performances feature a friendly, supportive environment for families with a loved one with special needs. Adaptations to the performance are slight, including:

> lower sound levels
> elimination of potentially startling special effects and lighting
> house lights on at about 20%

PLUS, at this performance we have

> relaxed house rules–you are free to get up, move around, and leave whenever you need to
> allowed use of iPads and other electronics for therapeutic uses
> volunteers scattered throughout the theater to assist and direct audience members as needed
> quiet areas and activity areas in the lobby for taking a break fidget objects and ear plugs available 
> PBT staff, dancers, ushers and volunteers receive training from our partner organizations to ensure that the performance is a welcoming, inclusive and memorable experience for all of our patrons. 

For more information or questions click here or contact accessibility@pittsburghballet.org.