New theater added! Monthly sensory-friendly movies. See schedules and locations near you!
Theaters across the country are starting to offer “Sensory Friendly Films” programs as a special opportunity for individuals living with autism and others to enjoy their favorite films in a safe and accepting environment. In order to provide a more accepting and comfortable setting for individuals on the autism spectrum, the auditoriums keeps their lights turned slightly up and the sound turned slightly down.
See here for three theaters in our area offering sensory-friendly showings with recently released movies!
O’neil Cinemas
Brickyard Square 12
24 Calef Highway, Epping NH (603) 679-3556
Sensory-friendly showings run monthly, check website for schedule.
Cost: $7.75 per person, children under 2 are free
A great program for families affected by Autism or other disabilities. See a movie on the big screen with no loud noises are lights higher than house lights for better visibility. Fun, friendly environment. All shows are at 10am.
Chunky’s Cinema
Locations: Haverhill MA, Nashua NH and and Pelham NH.
Sensory-friendly showings run monthly, check website for schedule.
Cost: $5.75 per person, children 4 and under are free.
Chunky’s offers monthly screenings for children with autism or other special needs. They keep the theater lights up, the sound of the film turned down, and no 3D. Audience members are allowed to walk around, dance, shout or sing! Chunky’s super comfy movie seats surround full size dining tables with waiter service. Chunky’s full breakfast and lunch menu is available during showtimes. Don’t forget to check out their free Little Lunch Dates showings!
Cinemagic Stadium 10
2454 Lafayette Road (U.S. Route 1) Portsmouth NH 603-319-8788
Sensory-friendly showings are held the third Saturday of each month at 10am (*always check website first*)
Cost: $8.00 adult/$6.50 children
Sensory Friendly Movies are regular movies in a sensory friendly atmosphere. Lights up; volume down; dancing, singing, talking and walking around are encouraged. Movies seating is stadium seating style.
As a grandparent of an Autistic child I think this is fantastic and would like to see more theaters on the list. Taking a special needs child to a movie can be very stressful for both adult and child. This will make the occasion so much more enjoyable. I applaud these theaters.
Very happy to learn that more companies are taking awareness seriously and are engaging in activities for children with delays/disabilities:)
Children with special needs should not be limited to one movie a month at hours their parents are not able to take them to. “normal” children can go to a movie whenever they want to and not have a problem. This needs to change.