Sensory-Inclusive Season starts on stages managed by the Broward Center

Live shows can be overwhelming for people on the autism spectrum as well as those with other sensitivity issues or developmental disabilities.

That’s why the Broward Center for the Performing Arts in Fort Lauderdale came up with a Sensory-Inclusive Season, which offers select performances of productions that have been lowered sound levels, curtailed flashing lights and reduced special effects.

There will also be a Sensory Quiet Room with a specially trained therapist at each of the stage shows. Plantation’s Young at Art Museum will provide free pre-show arts-and-crafts sessions and attendees can stay for a a post-show character meet-and-greet.

In addition to the Broward Center’s Amaturo Theater, productions will take place at Aventura Arts & Cultural Center and Miniaci Performing Arts Center (at Nova Southeastern University) in Davie — both of which are managed by the Broward Center.

“We believe that the magic of live music, theater and other captivating performances should be accessible to everyone,” Jan Goodheart, vice president of external affairs at the Broward Center, said in a prepared statement. “Once again this season, we are proud to offer sensory-inclusive performances in an atmosphere where everyone can feel comfortable, included and celebrated.”

The season kicks-off at with “Mary Poppins, Jr.” at 11 a.m. on Saturday, July 12  at the Broward Center. The rest of the season includes:

• “Cat Kid Comic Club: The Musical” at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 2 at the Broward Center.
• “Seussical” at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6 at the Broward Center.
• “Disney’s Frozen” by Slow Burn Theatre Company at 1:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 13 at the Broward Center.
• “The Nutcracker” by Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida at 11 a.m. on Sunday, Dec. 14 at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center.
• “The Pout Pout Fish” at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, Feb. 1, 2026 at the Broward Center.
• “The Silhouettes: Love Happens” (shadow-dance) at 1 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026 at the Aventura Arts & Cultural Center.
• “The Magic of Kevin Spencer” at 11 a.m. on Sunday, March 8, 2026 at the Broward Center (in the Abdo New River Room).
• “Elephant & Piggie’s ‘We Are in a Play!’ ” at 10:30 a.m. on Sunday, April 26, 2026 at the Miniaci Performing Arts Center at Nova Southeastern University.

Each show will have online resources at BrowardCenter.org (click on the event page for each production), including information on what to expect at the theater and character guides to help guests prepare.